HOA vs. Non-HOA Communities in Texas: What New Home Buyers Should Know
The number of residential communities governed by Homeowner Associations (HOAs) has exploded across the nation — particularly between 1980 and 1990, with HOAs growing from 36,000 to 130,000 — a nearly 261 percent increase. As one of the nation’s strongest housing markets, Texas also saw significant growth and continues to do so. The number of HOAs in Texas has grown 20 percent since 2017, and now more than 23,000 associations serve 6.2 million homeowners statewide, according to the Community Associations Institute.
HOA communities offer shared amenities, neighborhood maintenance standards, and community services funded through homeowner dues. Non-HOA communities typically provide more freedom regarding property use and appearance but may offer fewer amenities and less oversight. The right choice depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and priorities as a homeowner. Many of Texas' leading master-planned communities, including those developed by Johnson Development, operate through homeowner associations that help maintain amenities, landscaping, and community standards.
If you’re shopping for a new home in Texas, understanding how HOAs work and why they are so prevalent in master-planned communities can help you make a more confident decision.
What Texas HOA Fees Cover
The HOA fees in Texas paid by homeowners generally fall into two categories: operating expenses and reserve funds. Operating expenses are the day-to-day — making sure the common areas are mowed, flowers are planted, and the electricity and water bills for those common areas paid.
Homeowner associations are also responsible for maintaining HOA amenities. While the pool and lazy river in Jordan Ranch are built by the developer, it’s the HOA that ensures the pools are kept clean, the pumps are working, and lifeguards hired for the season. Homeowner association fees maintain the miles of nature trails and paved pathways winding through Grand Central Park. And the hundreds of resident events happening each year in Johnson communities — such as the popular La Tomatina Padre in Harvest Green or the summer concerts and pool parties held at many communities — are paid for through association dues.
Think of reserve funds as a savings account. Much like your own savings account, these reserve funds exist to cover unexpected costs or planned maintenance such as resurfacing a pool or pickleball court. Adequate funds in reserve negate the need for special assessments that could add hundreds of dollars in a one-time payment to your annual HOA dues.
HOA Communities Protect Property Values
If you’ve ever lived next door to a home that has cars on blocks in the driveway, an unkempt, overgrown lawn that rats love, or a home in dire need of paint, you were likely not in an HOA community. Homeowner associations have a set of rules that guide residents on the upkeep of their home. Trash cans put away after trash pick-up, yards kept neat, and holiday decorations stowed away in a timely manner are some of the rules that keep neighborhoods looking neat. The HOA also ensures common areas are maintained as pristinely as individual homes. And when future homeowners drive through, they see a well-kept, inviting community instead of a run-down neighborhood.
All this positively impacts your wallet. The National Association of Realtors reports that HOA property values are worth 5 to 6 percent more than homes not governed by HOAs. And according to Network Mortgage, homes next to eyesores can lose up to 10 percent in value. Your HOA community home is also likely to sell faster, as prospective home buyers appreciate the look of the neighborhood and the many amenities. Reporting by John Burns Real Estate Consulting shows that master-planned communities are more resilient during down markets and experience stronger recoveries, as buyers want access to amenities, proximity to quality schools, and land planning that strengthens area zoning laws.
How Texas HOAs are Governed
Master-planned community HOAs can’t operate arbitrarily. Rather, they are governed by state law that protects the rights of homeowners. Chapter 209 of the Texas Property Code is a set of Texas homeowner association laws that establish the legal framework under which every single-family HOA in the state must operate. Key provisions include:
- Open meetings. HOA boards are required to conduct business in open meetings with advance notice to homeowners. Residents have the right to attend and observe.
- Records access. Homeowners can request and review association financial records, budgets, and meeting minutes — so the books are never closed to the people paying the dues.
- Notice before enforcement. Before an HOA can fine a homeowner or suspend access to amenities, it must first provide written notice describing the violation and allow time to correct it. No surprises, no ambushes.
- The right to a hearing. If you believe a fine was issued unfairly, you have the right to appear before the board and dispute it.
- Payment plans. For communities of more than 14 lots, the HOA is required to offer payment plan options before an account is escalated to collections.
The Texas legislature strengthened homeowner protections during the 89th regular legislative session, with meaningful updates taking effect Sept. 1, 2025:
- HOAs can no longer prohibit the installation of solar panels or solar roof tiles
- HOAs cannot fine homeowners for brown grass during periods of local watering restrictions
- HOAs with 60 or more units must now make their governing documents available online, so prospective buyers can review the rules before they ever sign a contract.
Who’s A Good Fit for an HOA Community
You’ll find home buyers of every age and stage in an HOA community, from first-time homeowners to active adults living in exclusive 55+ communities such as Elements at Viridian and the soon-to-open Regency at Sienna. Parents of school-aged children might appreciate on-site schools, such as the new Haygood Elementary that opened last year in Cross Creek West and Urbanski Junior High and Williams High School, both slated to open in the community next year.
People wanting to meet their neighbors are also a good fit for a master-planned community. Mommy & Me playgroups start on the playground, and book lovers and oenophiles can meet like-minded neighbors during special events. Conversely, those who do not want to confront a neighbor about a shaggy lawn or parked cars lining the street every day will be glad to have HOA staff handle such matters.
But not everyone is right for an HOA community. Some people want to mow on their own schedules. And some really do want a home painted purple. Other advantages of a non-HOA community include no dues and more flexibility for hobbyists, RV owners, and others.
Home shoppers adamant about following only their own rules should look in a non-HOA neighborhood. Those who appreciate the rules’ benefits, the access to pools and parks, and attending fun community events will prefer a community governed by an HOA.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas HOA Communities
Are HOA fees mandatory in Texas?
Yes. When you purchase a home in an HOA-governed community, membership and dues are typically mandatory.
Can an HOA tell me what color to paint my house?
Generally yes, although the extent of control depends on the community's governing documents.
Can I install solar panels in a Texas HOA community?
Texas law limits an HOA's ability to prohibit solar energy devices.
Do HOA communities have higher home values?
Studies cited by the National Association of Realtors indicate HOA homes often command a premium compared to similar non-HOA homes.
Making the Move to an HOA Community
If you're shopping for a new home in Texas, you'll find no shortage of HOA communities to consider — from the master-planned communities of Houston's suburbs to the fast-growing corridors of Dallas-Fort Worth and the Austin area. Johnson Development's communities across all three markets offer the full picture of what HOA living looks like at its best: well-maintained neighborhoods, resort-style amenities, active social calendars, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your investment is protected. Explore what’s available here.