HOA Dues: The Line Item That Deserves Your Attention

There's a number on every condo listing that people see… and then immediately underestimate

HOA Dues

Right now, most of the condos I'm showing across Hollywood, West Hollywood, and into Century City are landing around $800–$1,200 a month.

And that number? It's doing a lot more than just covering the pool and landscaping.

What That Monthly Number Is Actually Doing

HOA dues cover the basics — maintenance, insurance, building upkeep — and sometimes the extras like a gym, concierge, or valet.

But more importantly, that $800–$1,200 is part of your monthly budget.

And where that money goes matters.

The Tradeoff No One Really Explains

At today's rates, that monthly HOA range is roughly equivalent to:

$800/month HOA → ~$100,000 in buying power

$1,200/month HOA → ~$150,000+ in buying power

Meaning: you can spend that money on HOA… or you can put that same money toward your mortgage and buy more home.

Same monthly. Very different outcome.

And here's the part that really matters: HOA dues don't appreciate. That money is gone every month. Money put toward a home builds equity over time — and benefits from appreciation.

In LA, $100K–$150K is not subtle. That's:

• a better location

• more square footage

• or the difference between "almost works" and "exactly right"

  
  

Why This Matters More Right Now

HOA dues aren't static — and lately, they've been trending up. Insurance costs across California have increased, and many buildings are catching up on deferred maintenance.

So that $900 HOA today? It has a very real chance of becoming $1,050+ down the line.

This Isn't Anti-Condo

Condos can absolutely make sense. They get you into neighborhoods you might not otherwise afford. They simplify maintenance. And in the right building, they can be a really solid long-term hold.

But they come with a tradeoff — and it's one you want to understand going in, not after.

Where This Really Comes Into Play

Once you're in escrow, that's where the real due diligence happens.

That's when you:

• go through the financials

• look at reserves

• check for upcoming assessments

• read the meeting notes

Or… you work with someone who's already looking at those things for you and knows what to flag.

Bottom Line

HOA dues aren't good or bad.

But they are often underestimated.

And right now, with most landing in the $800–$1,200 range, they're a big enough number that they deserve real attention.Because the only mistake here is not realizing what that monthly number is actually costing you.

xx,Carolyn

Your Very Favorite Agent

Next Brokerage | DRE #01423772 | (310) 751-4747 | carolynfayeweiner@gmail.com