Why Do Cincinnati Patio Home HOA Fees Vary So Much?
You've been searching our site for Cincinnati patio homes and the variance in HOA fees has caught your eye hasn't it? Why such a big range in patio home HOA fees? Why only $80 a month over here and over $300 a month over there?
Well the answer is "it depends"! Wait, that's not a real answer you say? Well the answer is a bit muddier than you'd probably like, but part of it comes back to definitions. Fact is, there's not a clear definition of exactly WHAT a patio home is!
Our viewpoint: A patio home is typically a DETACHED home (most often ranch style but might be two story) that includes the exterior landscaping (mulch, mowing, raking, snow removal off the driveway and sidewalks). You own the lot. You own the home. Roof needs repaired? That's on you!
However, a similar concept and the term "landominium" is often used interchangeably with "patio home". But the big difference with a landominium is you aren't responsible for the exterior maintenance of your home. Your HOA fee (which is typically higher) builds a cash reserve to cover roof replacement, siding repairs, etc. Basically you own and take care of your home from the studs in, everything outside including roof and siding is the HOA association (although you do own the lot). Landominiums are typically ranch style, but MAY be ATTACHED and MAY be two story.
Another term that is thrown into the mix is "ranch condo". And a ranch condo may be treated either like our definition of patio home OR like landominium. It may be attached or detached. They may be attached in duplex, triplex or even quad style. They may or may not have a basement.
Are you starting to see why the Cincinnati patio home market is a bit muddled and why you need an agent that specializes in the niche? Our MLS doesn't have a category for them, so that low maintenance lifestyle you want may be hiding under condo OR single family home. Most agents don't know where the patio home/lando/ranch condos are located, so you may be missing out on the PERFECT home for you if you don't hire a specialist like us!
And back to the HOA fees variation, it becomes a bit clearer on why "it depends" is the right answer. If the community performs the exterior upkeep of the home, expect to pay more. If the community has a pool and tennis court, expect to pay more. Walking trails? Open up the wallet. A fancy facade for the community entrance? More money. Do you pay water and trash separately or as part of your HOA fee? Is there a lake that needs maintained (e.g. Landen Lake?). Again, more money!
So bottom line, there's a variety of reasons why HOA fees vary so much. Don't overlook them when buying your patio home or landominium or ranch condo or whatever name du jour applies! We can help you understand exactly what you get for your dollars!
Ready to talk patio homes? Call Bill at 513-520-5305 or email The Liz Spear Team of RE/MAX Elite at Liz@LizSpear.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Serving Cincinnati area patio home buyers and sellers,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz
REALTORS(S) Serving Warren County Ohio & Adjacent Areas
The Liz Spear Team of RE/MAX Elite
Elizabeth & William Spear
Ask for us by name if you visit the office!
Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Liz direct: 513-265-3004
Bill direct: 513-520-5305
Fax: 866-302-8418
MailTo: LizSpear@Go-Concepts.com
Our Website: www.LizTour.com
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