“Be careful what you wish for” is one of those admonitions that most everyone heard from a parent while growing-up. It’s good advice to remember.
The Post reported that developer Paul McKee Jr. was bowing to the wishes of North Side residents who desired more community input. McKee says he’ll create a Master Homeowners’ Association which will allow residents of his newly created community to have input with regard to its development. Be careful what you wish for!
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are, in essence, private government established by contract via the association’s bylaws. The Missouri law governing HOAs gives little protection to the individual homeowner and nebulous power to the Board of Managers of the HOA. And it is common practice for the developer to write the bylaws, in which homeowners cede many of their lawful rights to the HOA. This convoluted contractual situation results in a variety of horror stories.
The majority of those buying property under the control of a HOA are unaware of the detrimental ramifications of the bylaws by which their lives will be governed. Most would flee if they did know. McKee’s HOA offering is not a good idea. Google “HOA horror stories” for more information.
Michael K. Broughton
Green Park