Planned Communities

If you are considering buying a home in a planned community, be sure that you understand the owners' association rules.

These covenants usually cover a wide range of subjects, including exterior paint, parking or where you can walk your dog, and sometimes even the kind of shrubs or flowers you may plant.

Such restrictions are attractive to many home owners because they don't have to worry about their neighbors doing things that they find offensive.

If you are an individualist, however, and don't want community interference in your lifestyle, such restrictions could cramp your lifestyle.

Be sure that you read and understand the rules and regulations governing a planned community before you make an offer on a property.

Remodeling a home is a major undertaking, so be sure that it is the best solution for you.