Hunter Creek HOA

What is an HOA?

An HOA is the governing body of the development or complex. Homeowners Associations (HOAs) are very common in some single-family housing developments, as well as condominium and townhouse complexes.

When you buy a property governed by a homeowners association, you automatically become a member of the association. You don't have the choice of not joining. The purchase of your home becomes a contract with the HOA. You agree that you'll obey all the HOA rules.

HOAs balance their restrictions with advantages. If all the homeowners follow the rules, you avoid the problems that plague some neighborhoods, such as trash piling up in someone's yard, or poor maintenance of lawns and gardens. (Reference)

Do I need the HOA's approval before adding a fence, deck, shed, patio etc..?

Yes, you are required to obtain approval.  Our rules state that no building, fence, wall, deck, shed, patio or other structure shall be commenced, erected or maintained on any Unit, nor shall any exterior addition to or change or alteration therein be made until the plans and specifications showing the nature, kind, shape, height, materials and location of the same shall have been submitted to and approved in writing as to Directors of the Association, or by an architectural committee composed of three (3) or more representatives appointed by the Board.

To request a change, complete the following form and return to the community mailbox located at 5 Hunter Creek Drive.

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Architectural Change Request Form

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In the event said Board, or its designated committee, fails to approve or disapprove such design and location within ninety (90)days after said plan and specifications have been submitted to it, approval will not be required and the Owner shall be deemed to have complied with the provisions of this Article.

What are the fees?

Currently, at a settlement, the homeowner will pay $150 "New Owner Assessment" and your annual assessment of $140. These assessments go toward normal operating expenses for the entire community.  

Invoices are mailed out each year by the beginning of December for the next year’s assessment and are due within 30 days. Late charges are currently $20 per month on any unpaid balance.  For example: If you pay the annual assessment of $140 after 30 days of invoice, you must pay an additional $20 ($160 total) by the next month.  If you do not pay this remaining balance, another $20 will be added to your unpaid balance for a total of $180 due within 30 days.

What does the fee pay for?

Your fees pay for the streetlights, lawn service of common areas and snow removal of common sidewalks (not in front of ones property. Fees also cover operating procedures; each mailing for example costs nearly $100. so we try to conserve as much as possible.  Our budget is small compared with most HOAs. We are also responsible for stormwater maintenance, and that will be quite expensive if a problem occurs.  We are keeping a larger reserve balance to offset these costs, so we can avoid raising dues or imposing special assessments in the future. 

Finally, as a reminder, your board saves you at least $200 a year by not having a management company and does the taxes gratis each year that in the past cost us $400, which means probably $500 now. 

Any excess income (“reserves”) will be retained in the HOA accounts for future needs.  Any unfunded expenses will need to be paid through existing reserves, or special assessment if necessary.

What if I don't pay?

HOA fees are mandatory. Late charges are currently $20 per month on any unpaid balance.  For example: If you pay the annual assessment of $140 after 30 days of invoice, you must pay an additional $20 ($160 total) within 30 days.  If you do not pay this remaining balance , another $20 will be added to your unpaid balance for a total of $180 due within 30 days.

The Association may bring an action at law against the Owner personally obligated to pay the same, or foreclose the lien against the property. An Owner shall be liable for all costs of collecting unpaid assessments, including court fees and costs, and reasonable attorney's fees actually incurred.

Unfortunately, we have had to take legal action against homeowners who do not pay, including liens against their houses and sheriffs sales.  The courts are slow, and it takes a while to recoup costs.  We will press on to ensure everyone pays what they owe. 

What if I plan to sell or rent?

If you are considering selling your house, you will be required to provide a “Resale Packet” to your purchasers.  As soon as you have a contract on your house, have your real estate agent contact Josh Starner at josh.starner@gmail.com for this packet.

If you choose to rent your house, make sure your tenants get a copy of the HOA Bylaws and Covenants.  Everyone was issued a copy of these at settlement. Additional copies can be purchased from the HOA for $10.00.

What's the difference between our HOA and Township?

In Pennsylvania, a township is one of four types of municipalities in the state, along with counties, cities, and boroughs. The township is the oldest form of government in the United States. Years ago, township supervisors were mainly in charge of maintaining roads and bridges. Today, their role has expanded to include public safety, land use, and environmental protection, among many other responsibilities. And as state and federal mandates increase, these public servants assume an ever-greater role in meeting these demands while providing needed services and facilities for their residents. (Reference)

Our HOA is essentially a small governing body within Conewago Township that allows us to have more specific rules and regulations. Though many of our HOAs rules are similar to the Townships, we are solely responsible for the maintenance of common grounds and overall neighborhood appearance and lifestyle. 

Note:

1. All public roads will be maintained by Conewago Township

2. HOA is responsible for Storm Water Management Areas as per approved plans.

3. HOA is responsible for the maintenance of the Entrance Monumentation.

What is the Hunter Creek Jurisdiction?

Boundaries are indicated on the below map.  Common areas (including grass and sidewalks) are highlighted in yellow.  These areas are maintained by the HOA. The townhomes have their own separate HOA.  As new homes are built on Iroquois Drive, they will be included in the Hunter Creek HOA.  We will not be responsible for maintaining the common area lawn or snow removal until the street is at least 75% developed.

Who is responsible for sidewalks and curbs?

Though homeowner's do not own the sidewalks, curbs, and grass between them, but they are responsible for maintaining and repairing them if needed.  

• Sidewalks should be kept clear and shoveled in winter for all pedestrian traffic, including the handicapped.  As sidewalks become unsafe due to shifting and cracking, homeowners must pay for repairs.

• Removing weeds and parking safely along the street to prevent structural damage can maintain curbs.

• Grass between sidewalk and curb should be mowed and trimmed on a regular schedule to help keep the neighborhood looking nice.

How can I become a Board Member?

The Board of Directors is made up of volunteer positions and is NOT compensated for their time. You can simply contact to current Board Members to inquire if any additional help is needed.  Nomination forms are also sent out to identify neighbors you feel would be a valuable contributor to our community.

Who is the Conewago Township Tax Collector?

Abby Latchaw

1920 Copenhaffer Road

Dover, PA 17315

717-266-0683