Ask me anything: what do homeowners association dues cover?

If you buy a condo or townhome, you will likely pay dues to your homeowners' association.  What do your dues cover? The big items are hazard and liability insurance, and management company costs (if you have a management company -- somebody has to write the checks).  Dues also cover building maintenance, exterior power and gas, general swimming pool maintenance, gardening, any municipal fees, and garbage pickup.  I tell my clients that the amount you spend in dues usually equals the amount you spend on maintenance and upkeep for a single family home.