Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ), and their answers:
What is a homeowners association?
As it applies to Wyatt Farm, a homeowners association is a legal entity created to manage a community of homes. It has the authority and responsibility to enforce covenants, conditions, and restrictions, and to manage the common amenities of the community. The Wyatt Farm Homeowners Association (HOA) is a non-profit corporation, subject to state statutes.
How do I join the Wyatt Farm Homeowners Association?
Every person that owns a home in the Wyatt Farm neighborhood is automatically a member of the Wyatt Farm Homeowners Association. There is no need to explicitly join. Membership transfers when you sell your home to another party.
What are the annual dues for the Wyatt Farm HOA?
The 2010 Wyatt Farm HOA dues are $250. The annual dues are due by the end of February and cover the calendar year. They are paid in full by the current homeowner; if a house is later sold, prorated dues are applied at closing.
What do my dues pay for?
Your annual dues pay for regular upkeep of the common grounds, including landscape maintenance and mowing. They may also be used for special maintenance such as repairs to the dock at the duck pond and the repair and painting of the fencing throughout the neighborhood. Your dues also contribute to special projects, such as the development of the Wyatt Farm Commons community area at the corner of Vinyard and Hardwick.
Who’s managing the neighborhood activities and upkeep?
The HOA Board of Directors is made up of Wyatt Farm homeowners who volunteer to help manage the neighborhood business. Your input is welcomed and encouraged, as is your active participation on the Board.
What are the “consolidated” covenants?
The Wyatt Farm neighborhood was built in phases, many of which initially had a slightly differing set of covenants. Once the neighborhood was complete, a final covenants document was drafted consolidating the various sets and eliminating inconsistencies. These covenants were ratified by the community members and finalized in December, 2008. So make sure you are looking at the right document when reviewing the covenants!
I’m thinking about doing some extensive landscaping / putting up a shed / extending my deck / adding a patio (etc.). Do I need approval?
Yes. Any significant exterior project must be approved by the HOA Architectural Standards Committee (ASC). The first step is for you to review the HOA covenants. Then talk with your neighbors about your plans. Then submit a basic plan to the HOA President regarding the work, who will distribute it to the ASC for approval.
Why do I need approval to do work on my own house?
The approval process is simply to guarantee that reasonable standards are maintained in the community and that there is no encroachment onto the common areas. Since most proposals are reasonable, they are often approved without a problem. The process is intended to be supportive, not a roadblock. We realize to some this seems like an unnecessary intrusion, but you’ll be grateful when this process keeps your neighbor from doing something you would dislike.