From Big City to Sunshine State: The HOA Surprises Many Northerners Face in Florida

When Sarah and Mark left Boston’s snow for Florida’s endless sunshine, they thought they’d found the perfect next chapter. They’d spent years dreaming of palm trees, pool days, and a peaceful neighborhood that “took care of everything.” Like many newcomers, they chose a gated community with an HOA that promised security, maintenance, and stress-free living.

At first, it was exactly that. They loved the tidy streets, friendly neighbors waving on evening walks, and the idea that they’d never again shovel a driveway. Their HOA fees seemed fair enough — until the notices started to appear.

The First Surprise: Small Details, Big Fines

It began with a polite note taped to their door: “Please remove weeds from front flowerbed within 7 days to avoid fines.”They’d never owned a lawn before — back in Boston, a landlord took care of everything. A few stray dandelions seemed harmless. Still, they paid a landscaper to tidy things up.

A few weeks later, another notice arrived. This time, it was about a garbage bin left out overnight — $50. Then it was a warning about a car parked too long on the street during a family visit. One guest overstayed the “overnight parking” limit: $100. It felt like living under a magnifying glass.

The Second Surprise: Rules Hidden in Plain Sight

They started reading the community handbook they’d skimmed at closing. Buried in pages of fine print were dozens of rules about everything from mailbox paint colors to how many days a relative could stay. Back in the city, their condo association barely enforced anything. Here, the HOA was watching everything — and they meant business.

They learned quickly that in Florida, many HOAs have:

• Strict guidelines for what you can plant or build on your lot.

• Limitations on rentals, guests, and even holiday decorations.

• The power to issue fines and late fees — and even place liens on homes if payments aren’t made.

A Lesson in Asking the Right Questions

By the end of their first year, Sarah and Mark had spent hundreds on fines they didn’t see coming. They wished they’d known what to ask before they signed the dotted line:

• What exactly do HOA fees cover — and what’s the history of increases?

• How are rules enforced, and how transparent is the board?

• Is there a record of special assessments or financial disputes?

• Do homeowners have a good relationship with the board — or is it constant friction?

Tips for Anyone Moving South

f you’re moving from New York, Boston, or anywhere else to Florida’s HOA-heavy communities, a little research goes a long way:

1. Read Every Document. CC&Rs, bylaws, and policies — no skipping!

2. Look at Financials. Ask for budgets and reserve studies. Is the community financially healthy?

3. Talk to Neighbors. Longtime residents will tell you what life there is really like.

4. Know Your Rights. Florida law protects homeowners’ rights to see records — don’t be afraid to ask.

Sarah and Mark still love their Florida home, but they’ll tell you this: the palm trees don’t come without a little fine print. HOAs can make community life better — or a lot more stressful — depending on how prepared you are.

So whether you’re swapping skyscrapers for sunsets or snow boots for sandals, do your homework. In HOA living, what you don’t know really can cost you.