HOA Fees in the PNW: What Every Homebuyer Should Know

HOA Fees in the PNW: What Every Homebuyer Should Know

When you’re buying a home in Snohomish County or anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, you’re probably thinking about mortgage rates, home prices, your down payment, and maybe even your closing costs. But one cost that often gets overlooked until later in the process? Homeowners Association (HOA) fees.

Not every home has them, but they’re becoming more common—especially in newer or planned communities throughout Western Washington. So, it’s important to understand what they are, how they work, and whether they fit your lifestyle and budget.

What Is an HOA, Anyway?

A Homeowners Association is an organization that manages a residential community. It helps maintain shared spaces, enforces neighborhood standards, and oversees amenities. Some buyers love the structure and perks an HOA provides. Others may prefer to skip the extra cost and retain more freedom over how they use and maintain their property.

The key is knowing what the fees cover—and whether those benefits are worth it to you.

What Are the Benefits of an HOA?

If you’ve been wowed by a tidy, beautifully maintained neighborhood with lush green spaces and pristine sidewalks, there’s a good chance an HOA is behind it. Here’s what HOA fees often support:

• Neighborhood Maintenance
  Landscaping, snow and leaf removal (yes, even in the PNW), garbage services, and maintenance of shared spaces like parks and trails.

• Amenities
  Pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, playgrounds, walking paths—even private security. These amenities can offer real value, especially if they replace other costs (like a gym membership).

• Property Value Protection
  HOAs enforce community standards. This helps prevent neglected or unsightly homes from dragging down neighboring property values.

• Less Personal Upkeep
  In some townhome or condo communities, the HOA may also cover roof maintenance, siding, or exterior painting—reducing your personal maintenance load.

Are HOA Fees Common in Snohomish County?

Yes, and they’re becoming more typical—especially in newer developments in places like Lake Stevens, Bothell, Mill Creek, Marysville, and Arlington. Nationally, over 80% of new single-family homes are part of an HOA (Wall Street Journal, 2024), and about 40% of all homes overall fall under an HOA structure (Axios, 2024).

In the Pacific Northwest, HOAs are especially common in:

• Newer subdivisions and master-planned communities

• Townhome and condominium developments

• Active adult or 55+ communities

What Do HOA Fees Cost?

Costs vary widely. Some rural communities might charge just $20–$50/month, while newer developments with more amenities could run $150–$300/month or more.

💡 Local Snapshot: In Western Washington, the average HOA fee in 2024 was about $140–$160/month, according to data from NWMLS and local real estate trends.

HOA dues may be billed monthly, quarterly, or annually. Always review the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) to know exactly what’s covered and whether there are any one-time assessments or special fees.

What Should Buyers Do?

When searching for a home:

• Ask early if the property has an HOA and what the fees are.

• Get a copy of the HOA rules—and read them! This can include rules on exterior paint colors, parking, fences, rentals, and even pets.

• Factor fees into your monthly housing budget. Just like taxes or insurance, HOA dues can impact affordability.

As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, put it:

“When considering a home with an HOA, buyers should work to understand what benefits it provides like maintenance, security, or communal amenities, and how the HOA fees factor into their overall budget.”

Bottom Line

HOA fees aren’t necessarily a bad thing—they often support clean, attractive, and well-run communities. But they’re not for everyone. It all depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and long-term plans.

Would you rather pay an HOA fee in exchange for fewer responsibilities and more amenities, or skip it for greater autonomy over your property?

Let’s talk about what makes the most sense for you in today’s Snohomish County market.