This isn't directed to anyone in particular - just a general statement:

I don't think the lesson that should be learned here is to avoid HOAs..... unless you're the type of person who doesn't like - or can't live by - rules. While it's true that some HOAs seem/are nitpicking to some people - and some HOA BOD members have personal agendas, the rules are there to protect the property values of your neighbor's property AND your own.

Not all, but most HOA rules are available for all to read before they buy their property. Some folks buy in a HOA area BECAUSE of the rules, are willing to live with/by them and recognize that if everyone does the same, the neighborhood will benefit. The problems arise when someone doesn't follow the rules, tries to make excuses, feels "picked on" because he can't get his way...... and the urinating contest begins... usually with stupid excuses like "I didn't have a copy of the rules" - when the rules are attached to the deed and furnished to every home buyer well before closing if the real estate agent and attorney are worth a hoot.

It seems to be human nature for folks to want rules to apply to everyone except themselves. And...... it seems that nearly everyone wants to pick and choose what rules are beneficial.

I live in an area that has a HOA, have been on the BOD for that association and have served as head of the Architectural Control Committee that approves/denies building of homes, fences, pools, etc. and the Covenants, Controls & Restrictions committee that creates, interprets and enforces the rules. Those (unpaid) jobs attract a lot of hostility, so if you don't like dealing with multiple urinating contests at once, don't ever find yourself conducting a general membership meeting for a HOA.

I bought my house in an area that has a fairly strict set of rules - the first of such I've chosen - because I've lived where there were no rules and didn't particularly like the slovenness and activities of some neighbors. When I bought into the neighborhood it was BECAUSE of those rules.

If there's a lesson in this, it is to decide what you want in a neighborhood and whether you want any rules at all - for yourself and your neighbors. If not - or if you are unwilling to abide by rules other than your own - you should never live where there is a HOA. Should you decide to live where there are rules and think it unfair to live by them, consider the unfairness to those who bought because of the rules if you choose to ignore them.

Frank