If you are a relative newcomer to the Sarasota area, you may not realize that many of our neighborhoods are governed by HOA covenants and community restrictions.
What is an HOA? An HOA (home owner’s association) is also sometimes called a property owners’ association. The association is originally formed by the real estate developer to set guidelines for the purpose of marketing and selling homes in a residential subdivision. After a certain number of homes are sold, the association management is handed over to the resident home owners.
How does this affect you if you are building a new custom home in the area?
Of course, if you have a lot in a non-deed restricted community, none of these restrictions apply to you. However, many people will find themselves building either in neighborhood with HOA covenants, or an established community which may have building restrictions.
By purchasing in a deed restricted community, you agree to the legal documents which govern that community. Even if you are planning to stay within the stated guidelines, most communities will require you to submit your plan in writing to the association in order to gain prior approval. The most common items which are covered in these documents include:
- Exterior Appearance: Frequently seen restrictions in a Sarasota HOA regarding the appearance of the home may include the type of roofing material utilized, the color of the exterior paint, the types of window covering, the ability to build over two stories and whether or not you can fence your yard.
- Additional Structures: You will need to gain approval for any additional or tangential structures – such as a deck, standalone garage, or even a shed.
- Plants, Trees & Landscaping: Most communities will require residents to landscape within certain guidelines. These include what types of plants and trees you can plant and in which areas of your yard. You may also have restrictions on the types of architectural elements which you are allowed to add to your property, from types of planters to garden gnomes.
- Pets: Some communities will restrict the number or type of animals which you are allowed to have at your residence.
- Other General Restrictions: From not being allowed to park on the street, to being prevented from having a driveway basketball court -if you are buying into a covenant-run neighborhood, there are many decisions which may have been made and documented.
When you purchase your land or new home, it is required that you receive, acknowledge and sign the documents which run the community.
Community Restrictions: Even if your home is not deed restricted, some of Sarasota’s established neighborhoods have community guidelines which need to be honored, generally to maintain the character and personality of a traditional neighborhood.
If you are planning to build a custom home and are looking for available lots, it is imperative that you understand the covenants and restrictions before you purchase that land. You may have the opportunity to petition the HOA during the contingency phase of your purchase in order to secure approval for what you want to do before you close on the deal.
Lindahl Construction has been building in Sarasota, as well as on Longboat Key and Siesta Key, for many decades. We are well-versed in the zoning laws, building codes, HOA covenants and community guidelines which you will need to understand. Call us before you choose your location or consult with us as to the home you can build on your property. We look forward to working with you to build your dream home.