Homeowners associations, which are commonly referred to as HOA’s, are usually self-governing organizations often set up as “common-interest” non-profit corporations where homeowners collectively pay fees on a monthly, quarterly, or annual schedule to maintain common areas such as entrance signs, gates, grassy areas and landscaping, and community facilities such as swimming pools and tennis courts.  

Some people prefer living in a “common-interest” community because of the uniform look and maintained grounds.  The most common way that people become members of an HOA is by accepting a deed for a lot in a subdivision or neighborhood that was previously made subject to a series of requirements commonly known as restrictive or protective covenants.  HOA’s set up as non-profit corporations in Tennessee are governed by the Tennessee Nonprofit Corporation Act.