It's just like renting with a property management group telling you what you can and cannot do, but with your own property! And they collect dues which most seem to use to their own amusement and wants. (mine has their own suvs with lights on them, lol)
I got fined for not mowing my lawn on a regular enough basis... on January 9th!
Recently, got back from about 6 weeks on the road (had about a 1.5 days home) to 6 letters from the HOA. (12 actually, since they send to both owner and tenant to the same address) I haven't opened them yet, I am going to send them all back "return to sender, addressee unknown." If I am in town I am going to the next board meeting. Finding a place to live without an HOA is a pain. Fuck those little nit-picking bastards! I am going to go season some pork shoulder, get the smoker ready and sip some Crown.