The Rise of HOAs: What Buyers in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills Should Consider Before Purchasing

When searching for a luxury home in Los Angeles or Beverly Hills, most buyers naturally focus on the big-ticket items—mortgage rates, home prices, down payments, and closing costs. But there’s another important factor to consider that’s becoming more relevant every year: Homeowners Association (HOA) fees.

According to the latest data from the Wall Street Journal, over 81% of all new single-family homes sold in 2023 were part of a homeowner’s association. That’s up from just 62% in 2009—a clear sign that HOAs are no longer the exception, but increasingly the norm.

What Is an HOA, and Why Does It Matter?

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is a private organization that manages a residential community, enforces community standards, and typically oversees the maintenance of common areas. In return for a monthly, quarterly, or annual fee, residents gain access to shared benefits, protections, and amenities.

In highly sought-after neighborhoods such as The Oaks in Los Feliz, Bel Air Crest, The Summit, and even gated pockets within Beverly Hills, HOAs are often associated with a more refined lifestyle—ensuring that everything from landscaping to exterior maintenance adheres to community-wide standards.

The Benefits of HOAs in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills

If you’ve ever admired the pristine streets, manicured hedges, and stunning curb appeal of gated communities in Beverly Hills or West LA, chances are, an HOA is working quietly behind the scenes to maintain that beauty. Here’s what makes HOAs appealing to many luxury homebuyers:

• Impeccable Neighborhood Maintenance: From lush, landscaped medians to beautifully maintained sidewalks and parkways, HOAs ensure your surroundings match the elegance of your home.

• Exclusive Amenities: In affluent areas, HOAs often include access to high-end features such as private clubhouses, fitness centers, spas, tennis courts , and even 24/7 security patrols . In communities like Sierra Towers or The Century, this elevated service is an extension of the luxury lifestyle.

• Property Value Protection: One of the strongest arguments for HOAs is their ability to preserve property values. By upholding aesthetic and structural standards, they help prevent neighboring properties from deteriorating or becoming eyesores.

• Convenience & Peace of Mind: Many HOAs cover exterior painting, roofing, and shared infrastructure maintenance. This minimizes your personal responsibility and maximizes your enjoyment—perfect for high-net-worth individuals who travel frequently or maintain multiple residences.

The Trend: HOAs Are Becoming the Standard

While not all homes in Los Angeles or Beverly Hills fall under an HOA, the trend is undeniably shifting in that direction—especially for new construction or master-planned developments. Many of the most desirable gated and planned communities now require HOA membership, and those communities are in high demand for a reason: order, prestige, and low-maintenance living.

Even in resale properties, approximately 4 in 10 homes in 2024 were part of an HOA, according to Axios. That number is expected to rise as developers continue to prioritize shared amenities and master-planned layouts that attract today’s discerning buyers.

Understanding HOA Fees and What You’re Paying For

HOA fees in the Los Angeles luxury market vary dramatically based on location and amenities. While some communities charge as little as $100 to $300/month, others—especially those with full-service concierge buildings, valet, pools, gyms, and security—can exceed $1,000 to $2,000/month.

For example, luxury condos along the Wilshire Corridor or developments like Beverly West or Ten Thousand often include 5-star amenities that rival boutique hotels.

Before buying, it’s essential to understand:

• What the HOA covers (utilities, landscaping, concierge, security, etc.)

• Any additional assessments or reserve fund requirements

• Rules or restrictions (pet policies, remodeling guidelines, leasing limitations)

As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, notes:

“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.”

Should You Choose an HOA Community?

If you’re considering buying a luxury property in Beverly Hills, Bel Air, or the broader Los Angeles area, choosing whether or not to buy within an HOA community depends on your personal preferences. Do you value privacy, exclusivity, and low-maintenance living? Then an HOA may be the perfect solution. Prefer total autonomy and creative control over your home and landscaping? You might favor a non-HOA property instead.

Bottom Line

In today’s high-end Los Angeles real estate market, HOAs are more common than ever—and often, they’re tied to the most prestigious communities in town. Whether you see HOA fees as a value-add or a restriction, the key is understanding what they offer and how they align with your lifestyle.

As one of the top Beverly Hills real estate agents with over 36 years of experience, I help clients navigate the pros and cons of HOA communities every day. Let’s connect and find the perfect fit for your next move—whether that’s in a stately non-HOA estate or a fully serviced, secure luxury enclave.