Metro Detroit buyer tips -

How are Michigan association dues determined? And why are some so high compared to others?  Are the dues annual or monthly? 

Most subdivisions have association fees to take care of the maintenance for common areas such as entrances  (planting flowers, watering & cutting grass).  Common areas are the land that the association owns.  The area all homeowners own as a collective group and can use as a co-owner.  Every homeowner can use the land within the association rules.  So usually, the bigger the common area the bigger the cost of association fees. 

Some subs have "green areas" within the sub.  Sometimes the city required so much green space, or it was an unbuildable lot.  Remember if the Michigan subdivision borders a main road all the grass between the sidewalk and street is association property and has to be maintained.  I know some subdivisions that have extensive grass areas along a main road and very few houses.  So the cost will be divided amongst a smaller amount of homes.  But a larger number of homes doesn't always lower the association dues.

Some divisions like Stonewater subdivision (Northville)or Island Lakes (Novi) or Hidden Lakes have parks on the lakes,and beaches that require maintenance.  So association dues will be higher.

Of course subdivisions that have pools, tennis courts, or private roads have higher association dues to cover the costs of maintaining these amenities.  Some subdivision have private roads then you may be paying for snowplowing.

Association dues are usually shown as the annual price but be sure to check.  When you find a place you like we will double check whether the association dues are monthly or annually. 

If some association fees seem really low, it may mean that there are very little green areas.  I know some subs that only have two small entrances to take care of.   Remember cul de sac islands are also association property.

If you live in a golf community the golf club is extra but membership may be at a reduced price.

Association dues cover parties in the subdivision, holiday activities for the kids, Holiday decorating, legal costs of protecting the association, replacing or improving items (new landscaping, new fences, new walls, new lighting, signs, new mailboxes), and the cost of putting information out to residents of the subdivision.

Association dues are necessary and many help make the Metro Detroit subdivision a nicer place to live.

My quote of the day is:

"It is not true that nice guys finish last. Nice guys are winners before the game ever starts."

------Addison Walker

Have a great day......................