If you’re buying or selling a home in Delaware County, one question comes up more often than people expect:

“Is it better to live in an HOA community or a non-HOA neighborhood?”

The answer isn’t universal — and in Delco, the difference between HOA and non-HOA living can significantly affect monthly costs, resale value, buyer demand, and long-term flexibility.

Here’s a clear, local breakdown to help you understand how the two compare in today’s market.

---

What Is an HOA — and Where Are They Common in Delco?

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is an organization that manages shared spaces and enforces community rules. In Delaware County, HOAs are most common in:

• Townhome communities
• Condo developments
• Newer subdivisions
• Active adult / 55+ communities

Non-HOA homes dominate much of Delco’s traditional housing stock — especially in Collingdale, Lansdowne, Aldan, Upper Darby, Havertown, and West Philadelphia border areas.

---

Cost Comparison: HOA vs Non-HOA Homes

HOA Communities

HOA fees in Delaware County typically range from:

• $150–$350/month for townhomes or condos
• Higher fees for communities with pools, elevators, or extensive amenities

HOA fees may cover:

• Exterior maintenance
• Lawn care & snow removal
• Roof replacement (in some condos)
• Trash service
• Common area upkeep

Non-HOA Areas

Non-HOA homes don’t have monthly association fees, but homeowners cover:

• Lawn care
• Snow removal
• Exterior repairs
• Roof replacement
• Driveway and sidewalk maintenance

Bottom line:
HOA homes have more predictable monthly costs, while non-HOA homes offer more control — but require active budgeting.

---

Lifestyle & Flexibility Differences

HOA Living: Structured & Low-Maintenance

HOA communities appeal to buyers who want:
✔ Minimal exterior upkeep
✔ Consistent neighborhood appearance
✔ Fewer surprises with maintenance

However, HOAs often limit:

• Exterior paint colors
• Fencing types
• Parking (commercial vehicles, RVs)
• Rentals or short-term leasing

Non-HOA Living: Freedom & Flexibility

Non-HOA neighborhoods attract buyers who value:
✔ Full control over the property
✔ Ability to renovate freely
✔ No association approvals

This flexibility is especially appealing to:

• Investors
• Multi-generational households
• Buyers planning renovations or additions

---

Buyer Demand & Resale Trends in Delco

HOA Homes

• Strong demand among downsizers, retirees, and busy professionals
• Popular for buyers seeking “lock-and-leave” living
• Resale value tied closely to HOA management quality

Poorly managed HOAs can slow sales and reduce buyer confidence.

Non-HOA Homes

• Broader buyer pool
• Strong appeal to families and investors
• Often sell faster in price-sensitive markets

In areas like Collingdale, Lansdowne, Aldan, and West Philly, non-HOA single-family homes often outperform HOA properties due to lower monthly costs.

---

Financing & Appraisal Considerations

HOA properties can face additional scrutiny:

• Condo approvals required by lenders
• HOA financial health matters
• Special assessments can impact buyer affordability

Non-HOA homes generally:

• Appraise more cleanly
• Face fewer lender restrictions
• Move faster through underwriting

This can matter in competitive markets where speed wins deals.

---

Which Is “Better” in 2026?

HOA Communities Are a Better Fit If:

• You want low maintenance
• You don’t plan major exterior changes
• You value predictability
• You prefer shared amenities

Non-HOA Areas Are a Better Fit If:

• You want full control of your property
• You’re cost-conscious month to month
• You plan renovations or additions
• You want maximum resale flexibility

---

What This Means for Delaware County Sellers

If you’re selling in an HOA community, buyers will focus on:

• HOA fees
• Rules and restrictions
• Financial health of the association

If you’re selling a non-HOA home, buyers will focus on:

• Property condition
• Maintenance history
• Taxes and utilities

Understanding which concerns matter most allows you to price, prepare, and market your home correctly.

---

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Delco?

Whether an HOA or non-HOA home is “better” depends on who the buyer is — and what they value.

If you want to understand:

• How buyers view your property
• How HOA fees impact your price
• What strategy gives you the strongest position

📩 Message me and I’ll tell you exactly what your home could sell for in today’s market.

Or if you’re still deciding:

📩 Message me “SELL” and I’ll walk you through your best options for selling this year.