HOAs have been receiving a lot of heat recently over how controlling they have a tendency to be. And while some make the argument that if you don't like it, don't move into that neighborhood; others believe they should be dismantled entirely.
Finding himself at odds with his own HOA, a recent Reddit post reveals a frustrated father's dilemma after he and a complaining neighbor butted heads.
Having spent the pandemic building a treehouse in his yard with sons, Dave was surprised to find that his neighbor had reported them to their HOA. Issuing a formal notice, the HOA contacted Dave and instructed him that the treehouse needed to be taken down immediately.
Angry, but nonetheless compliant, Dave and his sons took down the treehouse they'd just spent months building. Not content to let it end there, Dave printed (and laminated) a notice to a tree for their prying neighbor to see on their next walk.
Responding to the Reddit post with an overwhelming amount of support and frustration, the overall consensus is that HOAs are an unfair and outdated concept and need to be disbanded.
One of the top comments expresses this sentiment by saying, "I don’t know why anyone would pay for someone to tell you how to live your life. In your own home and property".
The note reads:
Don't worry, you're safe now! Your act of casual cruelty was successful. The complaint you lodged with the HOA was heard. They had me take down the small treefort that I built on this location with my sons during the pandemic. No longer will its presence offend your walk past my house. Please enjoy your stroll free from the sound of my children's play and laugher. They are safely back inside now, watching television I'm sure. Enjoy the unobstructed view of my backyard. I will try to keep it up to code.
Best,
Dave
Other commenters are concerned that if the HOA ordered the treehouse to be taken down, they will absolutely order the laminated letter be taken down as well.
What is your experience with HOAs, do you see the benefit? Or do you think it's time for a change? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
