Ft Myers, FL Homes For Sale: Important Questions to Ask

Many Ft. Myers homes for sale are in gated communities, which have Home Owner Associations (HOAs). The HOA includes all the homeowners in the same development. HOA fees are divided equitably among all homeowners and cover costs to run the community, including common areas such as landscaping, community pool and clubhouse.

There's plenty of specific information to be found in these documents—from your voting rights to the reserve funds set aside for future capital improvements. While they are often complex and lengthy, it's important to read them carefully. Here are some questions to ask about the HOA's standards and restrictions:

How do you plan to use your home?
When you're looking at Ft. Myers homes for sale, will you buy a place for year-round living, an investment property, or a vacation getaway? Many Home Owner Associations have restrictions on use, and you just need to make sure the place you choose works for how you want to use it. If you are planning on using this place as a seasonal rental, be sure to check if there is a limit as to the number of leases annually. Often there are limits as to how long someone can visit, and whether they have privileges at any of the community amenities, such as the clubhouse, gym or golf course. And, if it's an age-restricted community, sometimes the renters and visitors must be 55+ years of age, too!

What restrictions are in place?
This is often a touchy subject when buying Ft. Myers homes for sale. A restriction that you may bristle at, might actually be a welcome relief to another homeowner. While the list of restrictions may seem exhaustive, be sure to check for those things that matter to you. For example, if you have a pet, are there restrictions as to the size, the number or even the breed? If you like to garden, what are the rules about landscaping and planting? If you operate a home business, are they allowed, and if so, are there permits required? Be sure to check out vehicle restrictions, as well. Some communities don't allow motorcycles, and others don't permit commercial vehicles to parked overnight, and this can sometimes include pick-up trucks.

The most important thing to remember is that homeowner association rules are for the benefit of everyone living in the community.