If you’re shopping for a home in places like Frisco, Prosper, McKinney, Celina, Little Elm, Melissa, Anna, or Plano, you’re going to come across a ton of new construction neighborhoods—and almost all of them have Homeowners Associations (HOAs).
HOAs in North Texas vary widely in cost, amenities, and strictness. When I represent buyers, I help them understand the HOA structure and whether it fits their lifestyle before they ever sign a contract.
Here’s exactly what HOAs look like in our area and what you should know before buying.
1. What HOAs Do in North Texas New-Build Communities
In master-planned communities across North Texas, the HOA is responsible for:
✔️ Maintaining common areas
✔️ Managing amenities
✔️ Enforcing deed restrictions
✔️ Handling architectural approvals (ARC/ACC)
✔️ Overseeing neighborhood rules
✔️ Preserving home values
In many neighborhoods, the HOA is a major reason the community stays attractive and premium over time.
2. Typical HOA Fees in North Texas
Fees vary depending on community size and amenities.
Standard neighborhood:
đź’° $500–$900 per year
(Think basic subdivision with a playground, trail, or pool.)
Mid-tier communities:
đź’° $900–$1,500 per year
(Neighborhood pool, clubhouse, events, trails.)
Resort-style master-planned communities:
đź’° $1,500–$2,500+ per year
(Communities like Windsong Ranch, Union Park, Light Farms, Phillips Creek Ranch, and The Grove.)
The bigger the amenities, the higher the dues.
3. Common Amenities in North Texas New Build HOAs
New-build communities in our area often include:
✔️ Swimming pools
✔️ Fitness centers
✔️ Walking/biking trails
✔️ Playgrounds
✔️ Greenbelts
✔️ Dog parks
✔️ Fishing ponds
✔️ Clubhouses
✔️ Tennis or pickleball courts
✔️ Community events
✔️ Front yard maintenance (in some neighborhoods)
Windsong Ranch even has the famous Crystal Lagoon, one of the most unique amenities in the country.
4. Restrictions Buyers Should Know About
HOAs enforce architectural and lifestyle rules.
I always help buyers review:
✔️ Fence height and materials
✔️ Painting and exterior colors
✔️ Roof shingle type
✔️ Solar panels (increasingly allowed)
✔️ Shed rules
✔️ Pergolas and patio covers
✔️ Pool approval requirements
✔️ Parking restrictions
✔️ RV/boat storage rules
✔️ Landscaping standards
✔️ Holiday decoration limits
✔️ Pet restrictions
Even simple changes—like adding an extended patio—may require approval.
5. ACC/ARC Approval Process
The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) or Architectural Review Committee (ARC) reviews modification requests.
A buyer must typically submit:
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Description of the project
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Contractor details
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Materials
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Colors
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Plat or survey map
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Renderings or drawings
Approval times range from 1–4 weeks, depending on the community.
I always help clients understand the rules before planning improvements.
6. How Strict Are HOAs in North Texas?
Strictness varies dramatically.
Lenient HOAs
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Simple rules
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Quick approvals
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Minimal enforcement
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Lower dues
Strict HOAs
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High architectural standards
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Frequent inspections
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Notice letters for violations
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Tight restrictions on modifications
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Higher dues
Many premium neighborhoods enforce strict standards to preserve home values.
7. What I Look for When Reviewing HOA Docs With Buyers
When we go under contract, the seller must provide:
✔️ The full HOA Resale Certificate
✔️ Bylaws
✔️ CCRs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)
✔️ Rules & Regulations
✔️ Financials
✔️ Budget & reserves
✔️ Any pending special assessments
I help buyers review these for:
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Restrictions that conflict with lifestyle
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HOA financial red flags
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Upcoming fee increases
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Pending construction projects
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Problematic rules
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High violation activity
This protects you from surprises later.
8. Why HOAs Matter More in New Construction Than Resale
New-build HOAs are often:
✔️ Stricter
✔️ More active
✔️ Builder-controlled at first
✔️ Expensive due to premium amenities
✔️ Evolving as more phases open
Builders control the HOA board early on, which means:
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Rules can change
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Fees can rise
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Amenities may not be complete yet
I help buyers navigate this transition period.
9. Common Buyer Questions About HOAs in North Texas
Q: Can the HOA raise fees?
Yes—HOAs can increase dues based on budgets, inflation, or amenity costs.
Q: Can the HOA fine me?
Yes—HOAs can enforce rules and issue fines for violations.
Q: Can I refuse to join the HOA?
No—if a home is in an HOA, membership is mandatory.
Q: Does the HOA affect resale value?
Absolutely. Strong HOAs often maintain higher home values.
10. My Advice for Buyers Choosing Between HOAs
I help buyers choose the right neighborhood based on:
✔️ Lifestyle
✔️ Budget
✔️ Amenities
✔️ Restrictions
✔️ Future plans (pools, patios, additions)
✔️ Tolerance for rules
✔️ Long-term resale strategy
Not every HOA fits every buyer—and that’s okay.
My job is to help you find the community that fits you best.
Bottom Line: HOAs Are a Huge Part of New-Build Life in North Texas
They shape how the neighborhood feels, how it looks, what you can do with your home, and how values hold over time.
Understanding these rules upfront helps you make the right long-term decision.
Want Help Navigating HOAs in North Texas?
If you want a Realtor who knows every major new-build community, their HOA costs, restrictions, and long-term value trends, I’d love to help.
