While homeowners associations (HOAs) aim to protect property values, they also can limit a homeowner’s personal choices. Peter Rotelle, Blue Bell native who graduated from Penn State, as well as homebuilder and owner of Rotelle Development in Pottstown, explained the varying dynamics for Michaelle Bond at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Rotelle formed an HOA at one of his small Chester County communities because the township required it. He made the concession to enable a variance for the narrower roads he believed the development needed.

The HOA rules Rotelle generally puts in place depend on several factors, including the price point, location, and amenities. Regulations vary from limiting RV and boat parking to prohibiting chain-link fences.

Over the past three decades, Rotelle Development has compiled lists of regulations “that will preserve the value of the community and the investment people are putting forth,” he said.

However, he did note that while HOAs serve a necessary purpose in communities with common resources and active amenities, they are not always necessary and can create animosity among neighbors.

“You’re giving up rights to your property and putting that in the hands of neighbors who maybe see differently on certain things that are personal choices,” he said.

Read more about Rotelle Development in The Philadelphia Inquirer.