Before you decide on the location of your real estate purchase or during your due diligence period take the time to do some homework.
All of the above come with rules that will become part of your ownership responsibility.
They also affect your long term plans and budget, so let’s get started and I’ll make this a simple as possible.
Zoning is applied though your local government, information on how a property is zoned is usually attainable through the  tax assessors office.  An example of zoning may be that you are looking to buy a property for a mobile home when in fact stick built homes will only be allowed in the area, or the setback requirement that states where on a lot you must place your home or improvement.

Restrictive or protective covenants, may be recorded at the county courthouse or conveyed in your deed.  Even if a neighborhood has not been complying they are still worth reading.  A few examples of a covenant may be the ability to lease your property at anytime, what kind of pets are allowed, landscaping ornaments, the size of your home and house paint colors or finishes.

Homeowners associations are usually managed by the home owners, the declarant of the covenants or with the help of a management company. The Homeowners association enforces the covenants, collects dues, and oversees the maintenance of common areas , and amenities in a community. They may also become active in issues of the  greater community to promote the best interest of their neighborhood.

You can almost be  certain that zoning will apply, a good chance of covenants, and home owners and property owners associations are most popular in newer developments and condominiums.  Zoning requirements take precedence over restrictive covenants.

Happy home shopping 🙂