Many of the neighborhoods in Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Timnath, and the surrounding Northern Colorado area have Homeowner’s Associations, most commonly referred to as HOAs. Some HOAs are more stringent than others and some have rules that differ wildly.
If your property is currently managed or if you are thinking about having your property managed, be sure you understand what the HOA says about renting your property. Some HOAs want to have your tenants’ information so they know who to contact in case of a violation. However, owners need to keep in mind that they are still on the hook for any fines that result from a violation. As a property manager, we can help pass those fines onto the tenant, where applicable.
Also, be sure you understand the rules around pets. Some HOAs forbid certain types of breeds and some do not allow pets at all. Be sure you understand the covenants within your HOA documentation regarding this subject. Another issue we have seen recently is where tenants put their satellite dishes. If your tenant uses one of the satellite TV companies, be sure you understand the rules around where those can be placed. If the dish is put in the wrong location, the HOA will request it to be removed or moved to a proper location.
Some other issues that have come about recently are around garbage cans, parking violations, landscape maintenance, and boats/RVs. As an owner of investment property, we suggest you fully review your HOA documentation for your given neighborhood. Once it is understood, make sure you pass on the information to your property manager. Then, your property manager can be sure the knowledge transfer happens to the tenants. This chain of information will be extremely beneficial because the tenant will understand the rules at the beginning of the lease and will result in less HOA confusion.
If you have a property in Northern Colorado including Fort Collins, Loveland, Timnath, Windsor, Wellington or Weld County, please contact Real Property Management of the Rockies for your property management needs. We would be honored to become your trusted property management company.