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Homeowner’s Association Suing Woman Over…Granddaughter’s Pink Playhouse

Sep. 22, 2012 4:04pm Madeleine Morgenstern

Homeowners Association Suing Becky Rogers Peck Over Granddaughters Pink Playhouse

Image source: WAGT-TV

A Georgia grandmother is being sued by her homeowner’s association over the color of her granddaughter’s playhouse.

It’s pink.

Becky Rogers-Peck bought the playhouse for her 4-year-old granddaughter Aubree last Christmas in Aubree’s favorite color, WAGT-TV reported. But the Mills Haven Homeowner’s Association is taking her to court because she didn’t first get approval for the structure’s color.

“The general reaction is, ‘Are you kidding me?’’’ Rogers-Peck told NBC News. “They’re suing you over a pink playhouse?’ They’re policing us like we’re in a communist country, and it’s just ridiculous. Every once in a while, you’ve got to stand your ground.”

The homeowner’s association president has defended the move, saying it’s had complaints from neighbors.

“Part of the approval is color. We didn’t disapprove the playhouse, we disapproved the color,” association president Susan Bradley told WAGT. “Obviously I had neighbors that complained about it.”

Image source: WAGT-TV

But during a homeowner’s association meeting earlier this month, other neighbors came to Rogers-Peck’s defense.

“This is somebody’s personal property,” one resident said, according to WAGT. “If they want to have a pink playhouse, or a blue or a green playhouse, I’m fine with that.”

Rogers-Peck said it doesn’t make sense that a few complaining neighbors should dictate for the majority. She said she agrees rules should be in place for homeowners looking to put up a new shed or garage, but said she considers the playhouse to be play equipment, like a trampoline or swing set.

Wright McLeod, the attorney representing the homeowner’s association, said the rules must be followed.

“I don’t think it’s dumb,” McLeod said. “I think it’s regrettable that the homeowner would not comply with the rules.”

The association has said Rogers-Peck can keep the playhouse if she repaints it, which she said is not an option.

“I will not paint that playhouse,” she told the station. “I’ll move first.”

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Comments (264)

grimmster
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:05pm
code pink should be outraged! Bet they dont oppose purple, or a rainbow pattern…..

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- MAULEMALL
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:54pm
  If she said she was a moose lam and she started screamin ALOHA ATABAR presidunce obernama and big dog monica clinton would lead a raid with some seals and whipe out that association…
  
  Report this comment
- Hanner
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:12pm
  This is what happens when a bunch of uppity yankees come from the North and move into our quiet little country towns. They bring their concrete-jungle style of living down here to teach us stupid hicks, and stump-jumping hayseeds how to live properly. These crying, whining, bickering, complaining crybabies get themselves elected to be leaders in these HOA’s and town councils and just absolutely wreak havoc on the locals. These people should shut up and leave others alone, or better yet…GO BACK UP NORTH AND LIVE. Back in my other life I would have loaded up a truck full of my hunting dogs, went to that neighborhood, dropped the tailgate, and let those dogs hose down every tire in sight, and drop ****-bombs in every yard they could get to. I’m glad I don’t live that way anymore. God bless.
  
  Report this comment
- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:38pm
  Amen Brother!
  YANKEE GO HOME!
  I’ve noticed only the crazies move down here. The rest can find work up there. I dragged one(from Michigan) into court a few years ago for threatening me for absolutely no reason. He packed his bags and went to Atlanta, because he had a criminal record and didn’t want to go back to jail. It cost several hundred dollars in court costs, anyway. Revenge of the hick!
  
  Report this comment
- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:44pm
  Shoud’ve said, it cost him…
  
  Report this comment
- MormonPiper
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 10:12pm
  She signed the binding contract for those HOA covenants. She should live up to her promise. Then next time be smart enough not to buy anything with any HOA B.S.
  
  Report this comment
- RANGER1965
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 12:43am
  The question isn’t whether the rules are stupid, or whether the homeowner should comply.
  
  The question is this:
  
  Is a playhouse part of the home, or is it play equipment like a sand box, swing set, large toys etc.
  
  If you think the play house is a home addition like a garage etc…then the association is right, and she should repaint it.
  
  If you think the playhouse is seperate from the house like a tree house, swing set etc…then the association has no right to tell her what to do.
  
  It’s as simple as that.
  
  Report this comment
- mercenary4freedom
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 1:22am
  Yea I’m plagued with misplaced yankees in my area here as well. They think they are the union steward of the neighborhoods, lol.
  
  The woman needs to check her bylaws and have them show her where pink is stated as being an unapproved color for structures in the community. If it’s not then she can tel them to go suck an egg.
  
  Report this comment
- rickg62
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 1:23am
  To Hanner: We grew up in NY and never heard of HOA’s til we moved to Florida, so come down off you idiotic high horse and crawl back in your doghouse with your mutts. We hate them too and think they should be outlawed, but to “Mormonpiper” in a lot of areas, try buying a house that’s not in a development .
  
  Report this comment
- LogCabinRepublican
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 2:11am
  @HANNER – Don’t go an bash us Northerners because i think this is RIDICULOUS! Like my HOA says no cats. I should be able to have a cat in my own home as long as it’s not bothering anyone around me. I took my grandmothers cat when she passed away and I will fight til the end if they ever find out and take me to court. As this person should as well. I think the playhouse is cute. The color rules only really apply to the color of the home not a playhouse. She is just being nit picky. Stop fighting the fights that aren’t worth fighting – SIDE NOTE there should be a LIKE or AGREE button on peoples comments here set up more like facebook it’s to difficult to go back and try to find a comment that you had made when there are usually hundreds.
  
  Report this comment
- Deuteronomy22
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 5:06am
  In my Arizona development the HOA maintains the many playgrounds, green zones, walking and bike paths and every single inch of common land is perfectly landscaped and maintained. No one is out in their driveway revving cars with open headers, the homes are all neat and free of junk. Plus we have a teen center, a golf course, community center with a pool, water slides and child zero depth end. All for $45 a month. It is definitely worth it. I am always amazed how tranquil and quiet it is when we take our evening walk. Nothing against city living done that and rural homes are great especially the freedom and recreation with some acreage but for our lifestyle this works.
  
  Report this comment
- Kenszen
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 8:06am
  @Mormonpiper I would normally agree, except that this playhouse to me does not qualify as a “structure.” A structure should mean a permanent addition to a house or house property. This is play equipment. A toy. Removable.
  
  HOA’s need to be put in their place. A few people who like to control other people is the real issue here. I hope the lady gets herself an attorney and counter-sues.
  
  Report this comment
- afishfarted
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 9:23am
  And I’m a damn yankee who moved to Tn from Illinois to get away from having my private property from being over regulated by a bunch of people who I don’t know and who don’t know me and who could give a crap about that pesky thing call individual liberty. And don’t anyone give me a line about affecting other’s property values. I didn’t worry about somone else affecting MY property value when I moved in.
  Now, in Tn of all places, we have a bunch of native local idiots who are tryin’ to make this area like the north !! They got hoodwinked into doin’ this nonsense by a huckster from New York who was paid $75,000 for consultation fees. I just can’t believe it.
  Ya know who’s fightin’ them? Me and a bunch of other damn yankess who moved south to get away from that s***. Talk about irony.
  (MAN, did I go on a rant or what? lol)
  
  Report this comment
- NancyBee
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 10:42am
  AFISH……It’s OKAY….Sometimes you have to let off steam and rant!!!!lol
  
  Report this comment
- afishfarted
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 1:22pm
  @NancyBee
  ‘Preciate it. lol
  WHO KNEW THE BLAZE COULD BE A THERAPIST ?!?!?
  
  Report this comment
- Hanner
  Posted on September 24, 2012 at 11:23am
  For all those NORTHERNERS that are upset at my post, check this out!
  Starting Back in Levittown: You may have first heard of Levittown in your high school history class. It’s the Long Island, New York town that was the site of the first planned community of homes — in other words, the first suburb. When built in 1944, homeowners associations weren’t born yet, but the idea began percolating here. The developers wanted the homes well kept and attractive, so they bound the first homeowners to rules like a ban on hanging their laundry on lines on their front lawn. The idea for these rules was to lure more buyers and keep property values intact. The concept borrowed heavily from 1830s British law the notion of “restrictive covenants” that dictated how land could be used — even the race, religion and drinking habits of residents.
  Read more: History Of Homeowners Associations | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8036857_history-homeowners-associations.html#ixzz27OrUL9H
  NEW YORK CITY was the birthplace of the Home Owners Association!!! Thanks New York for bringing your concrete-jungle, property-rights stealing, whining, complaining, greedy, and hateful attitude down here to the South to corrupt these quiet, peaceful little towns with that petty, selfish trash that you dreamed up just so you could keep your property values! Those of you that did move from there to escape that garbage, God Bless You for common sense, and decency. HOA’s are the result of GREED.
  
  Report this comment
- Armed Patriot
  Posted on September 25, 2012 at 9:33am
  This is what you get when you have a HOA.
  
  Report this comment
Sirfoldallot
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:05pm
Shouldn’t ” Home Owner Group ” be a deal breaker ?

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- stumpy68
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:56pm
  Every single time unless you like having other
  people tell you what you can and cant do with your own land.
  
  Report this comment
- Prosoldier
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:14pm
  The first few times I read the ridiculousness of these HOAs, I was outraged. But now I can’t help but think “stupids- quit buying homes in a HOA if you don’t want someone telling you what brand and color your toilet paper must be.” For those whose communities voted for the HOA after their homes were purchased, well, welcome to AmeriKa Komrade. The collective has spoken; resistance is futile!
  
  Report this comment
- booger71
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:25pm
  I reside in a neighborhood with an HOA, unless the covenants forbade have a pink playhouse in writing, it is not enforceable. I live in one because it is nice living somewhere where people have a pride in ownership, you don’t have to worry about people having junky cars sitting up on blocks, or couches on the front porch.
  
  Report this comment
- American Soldier (Separated)
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:54pm
  I personally hate HOAs but I see where there’s a benefit to them. If you move into a neighborhood with an HOA, you have to do more as a new buyer than just pay for the house. An HOA is a beast all on it’s own. You must get to know the neighbors before you move in, make sure you are on the same page as they are.
  
  HOAs are great if you have tons of money and just care about clean, organized neighborhood. If you want to be in individual, don’t buy into a neighborhood that has an HOA. If you’re a working professional that you just have your house, the grass done by a landscaper and you don’t mind following guidelines for how your house maintained, then an HOA is ok for you.
  
  You should know before you buy. I think for an HOA to start, it must be unanimous. Or those that don’t want to participate are excluded. But if the HOA existed before this woman moved into the neighborhood, she knew what she was getting into.
  
  Move it or paint it. Or move out of the HOA. You have choices.
  
  Report this comment
- Anonymous T. Irrelevant
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:40pm
  Lesson learned-don’t belong to a communist “Homeowner’s Group,” where a panel decides your life for you.
  
  Report this comment
- brewers97
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:18pm
  Famous quote……Joe McDonnell, POW died in English hands………..F&^K your Union Jack……….WE want our country back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  
  Report this comment
- Brooke Lorren
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:37pm
  The unfortunate thing is, it’s hard to find a nice-looking house in a place that isn’t either in an HOA or out in the middle of nowhere. About the only way to get a new house in some places is to buy an old house, tear it down, and build something else in its place.
  
  Report this comment
- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 10:11pm
  HOA’s get away with these kind of things because of the Supreme Court case in 1948, Shelley vs. Kraemer, that outlawed restrictive covenants. White people are willing to endure a lot to escape a dangerous neighborhood.
  
  Report this comment
- booger71
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 10:48pm
  Lesson learned-don’t belong to a communist “Homeowner’s Group,” where a panel decides your life for you.
  ===========
  That is why I serve on the board of mine. The trouble is, most people don’t want to serve or even go to the meetings. A HOA is not communist. The board is duly elected by the membership, follows Roberts Rules, and I have helped get the more idiotic rules changed in my neighborhood. I know they are not everyone’s cup of tea, and people should carefully read the covenants before they buy.
  
  Report this comment
- daveycrokett
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 10:24am
  i agree little communes with rules telling you what you can do w/your property are no place for freedom loving Americans
  
  Report this comment
dcwike
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:04pm
I had a landlord who moved out of his house because of HOA “added rules” after he bought the home. So, rather than sell, he chose to rent it out. And WE moved into a “hostile environment,” lol. People even complained because the upper blinds and lower blinds weren’t “evenly” raised. And, because we didn’t send our kids to summer camps, they ridiculed everything our kids did in the common play area – like setting up a temporary net to play vollyball because the landlord didn’t get permission from the HOA to allow it.

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GhostWindRider
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:55pm
Never been in a HOA agreement, from what i’ve heard, whatever your sign your rights away to, some association, etc., you are getting your due displacement. Funny how those flying a flag seem to be the ones getting heaviest hit.

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- U.N.hater
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:03pm
  She said she agrees rules should be in place for homeowners looking to put up a new shed or garage, but said she considers the playhouse to be play equipment, like a trampoline or swing set. Sorry but someones property is theirs to do with as they please. There should be no one telling anyone what they can or can’t do on their own property. It’s all communism….
  
  Report this comment
- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:42pm
  Always the US flag, or Marine flag. I’ve yet to hear one about the Hammer and Sickle.
  
  Report this comment
AmericanLass
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:52pm
What next, the color of cars in the parking lots ?

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- Fuddy-duddy
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:25pm
  Already here; There’s a hoa in FL that says no pickup trucks and cars can’t be older than a certain year.
  
  Report this comment
- CatB
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:34pm
  I know one whole community Cape Coral FL where you can not park a vehicle in your own driveway that has “writing ” on it .. like an electrian van etc. The Realtors got a waiver … but others must cover up any signage or not park it where it can be seen by ANYONE This is not an HOA but a town.
  
  Report this comment
jg2pto
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:51pm
Hugh Williams must be a HOA president or something. LOL, this guy has a hard-on for his home value and thinks a child’s pink playhouse is going to ruin it. I feel bad for you pal. Maybe you should get out a bit and see a baseball game, or maybe go for a Sunday drive. You might actually learn to live life instead of walking around with a tight sphincter and a constipated look all day long.

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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:02pm
  I am not president by I am on the Architecture Review Committee. If she had followed the rules and went thru the ARC she could have avoided this problem.
  
  Report this comment
- zhaan
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:48pm
  I’ve got news for you Hugh. Where I live, there are beautiful, older homes closer to downtown and one of the reasons they are in high demand is precisely because they don’t have an HOA associated with them.
  
  You keep going on and on about your “investment,” as if the value of your home gives you any right to trample on the rights of your neighbors. Your home shouldn’t be an “investment” anyway – it should be the place that you live. It’s people like you that ruined the housing market and also let this quasi-communist HOA system get total control over people’s property.
  
  Many HOAs aren’t even controlled by residents – they are controlled by the developers who built the subdivision.
  
  I’m a renter now, but if I ever buy a home, I’ll steer very clear of your “investment-protected” HOA. And as more people revolt against HOAs, the less your “investment” will be worth. Good riddance, I say.
  
  Report this comment
- ANTISOCIAL-IST
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:50pm
  hugh: why don’t you architectually review how to remove your head out of your a$$! there’s more to life than being a petty little creep thinking about your “investment,” that, judging by the looks of your photo and your mothball breath, ain’t going to do you much good as you look like you’re on your way out anyway. it’s a freaking, perfectfully constructed and tidy playhouse for a little girl. what a creep!
  yes, grandma did make a hugh/huge mistake: living in a community with a bunch of busybodies with nothing to do but harass their neighbors.
  
  Report this comment
- zhaan
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:54pm
  PS If you watch Glenn at all, you know you should be preparing for hyperinflation and a possible economic collapse. Anyone living in an HOA is at a distinct disadvantage – when food prices get really high do you think your HOA will allow you to have a real food-producing garden in your back or front yard? How about chickens? A goat? Probably not. You won’t even be able to dry your clothes out on a clothesline if your electric bill gets too high – that’s what the HOA will stop you from doing. All for “appearances.” It’s sad what Stepford Zombies Americans have become.
  
  Report this comment
- stumpy68
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:02pm
  @Hugh Williams
  I know you’re just a troll stirring the crap
  but the realtors i know have almost given up showing houses where a hoa
  exists unless of course the buyers are from Massachusetts or mentally disabled
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:06pm
  ZHAAN
  What part of if you don’t like a HOA ,don’t buy in a HOA neighborhood don’t you understand? I don’t know where you live but I know for damn sure my HOA is run by people that live in the neighborhood. If you don’t like HOA’s no one is forcing you to buy there. Why do you feel the need to make sure people that like HOA’s can’t have them? Why do you feel the need to force your views on everyone else?
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:13pm
  Antisocial-ist
  What kind of computer do you have…. mine can’t smell people’s breath. It is ironic that your fake name is anti-socialist when you want to force everyone to not live in a neighborhood that has a HOA because YOU DON’T LIKE THEM. Unlike you I am not trying to force people to live the way I like. Put on your big boy pants and post under your real name. Any coward can try to bully people hiding behind a fake name.
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:19pm
  ZHAAN
  Are your powers of reason so weak that you believe if an economic collapse occurs there will still be HOA dues?
  
  Report this comment
- darkeningskies
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:19pm
  wow Hugh, add a little mustache and you might have a few ‘heils’ in the works
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:23pm
  Hey Stumpy
  Please explain why I am the troll??????? I think everyone should be able to choose if they want to live in a neighborhood with a HOA or not? It is you and the others like you that want to force your choice on everyone else. Please explain how you are any different than the leftist you so despise? Is it only OK to take away other peoples freedom of choice only when you do it?
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:28pm
  Darkeningskies
  Did you think up all by yourself? Why do the extremist on the left and right always call anyone they disagree with Hitler and a Nazis? It is hard to see in my pic because it is gray but I have a mustache.
  
  Report this comment
- zhaan
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:28pm
  Hugh, there are many places where people don’t have any other options for home ownership other than to go with an HOA because of their jobs and home prices. HOAs have the “right” to take your house from you if you don’t pay your dues. They are a quasi-governmental entity given extreme amounts of power and little to no accountability. There are no checks and balances. I think the private property rights of the homeowner should supersede any homeowner’s “laws.” HOAs have way too much power. They are probably unconstitutional.
  
  PS Who’s to say you are using your “real name” or even your real photo! My arguments stand for themselves.
  
  Report this comment
- ANTISOCIAL-IST
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:34pm
  @hugh: selfish greedy cretin. money money money. but but my investment. hope you have no grandchildren.
  as far as coward, pfffft. it’s easy to find me if you’re really interested.
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:38pm
  ZHAAN
  My God where do you live? I live in a town with a population around 100,000. I live in a neighborhood with a HOA by choice. My 3 daughters also live in the same town and none of them bought a house in a HOA neighborhood because they don’t like HOA’s. So you are telling me in your town every house is in a HOA neighborhood?
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:43pm
  Anti socialist
  You sound like you are a socialist. You say I am a greedy Capitalist because I choose to protect the biggest investment in my life (my home). You are really a Occupy Wall Street person aren’t you?
  
  Report this comment
- ANTISOCIAL-IST
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:51pm
  @hugh: you must really have reading comprehension difficulty. i never tried to bully or force anyone to do anything in my first post. and i never called you a capitilist in my second post. you must be the obama bootlicker if you automatically connect greedy with capitalist. careful, your true colors are showing.
  all i was implying was to have a freakin’ heart, if at all possible. it’s a freakin’ playhouse for a child.
  as far as your breath, it was just a guess. does your breath smell like mothballs, hugh? hugh?
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:02pm
  Socialist
  You think I am a greedy cretin for protecting my investment. OK you never said the word Capitalist, but in every other aspect you apparently hate people that vale money. It is OK comrade you can admit you love big government redistributing other people money to you.
  
  Report this comment
- ANTISOCIAL-IST
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:10pm
  @hugh: i take it all back, hugh; you’re a genius; you’ve outed me; i’m ruined.
  
  p.s. d e a t h to commies!
  
  Report this comment
- RoBoTech
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:40pm
  HW
  You are a small, petty old man.
  But don’t despair, there are plenty of petty old men around.
  I think it’s called… senility.
  I pity you.
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:05pm
  Would any of you so called conservatives explain why you are so anti-choice? I have been called everything under the sun for daring to say people should be able to live in a HOA if they choose. If you choose to live in a HOA follow the rules or move. If you don’t want to live with the restriction of a HOA than don’t buy a house in a neighborhood with a HOA. Would someone please explain why I am so evil because I think people should be free to choose for them self? My God you people are as crazy as the leftist at the huff post.
  
  Report this comment
- zhaan
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 12:16am
  Hugh, just because in your “small town” of 100,000 there might be affordable places to live with no HOA, there are areas where the only affordable homes for a young family are in HOA neighborhoods, many of which are controlled by the developer, and some of which are *not* scrupulous whatsoever! They reel people in with certain rules and then change the rules after the home has been bought. Sometimes the HOA’s will go into massive debt and foot the homeowner with an outrageous bill they can’t afford. Then, when the homeowner is late on their excessive dues, the HOA (still run and owned by the developers) forecloses on the home.
  
  And then there’s the personal vendettas that happen, where a vindictive HOA president will fine you thousands over a small infraction just because they hate you.
  
  But in your gilded world, HOA’s are always right and are never abused in any way shape or form. Good luck to you when you finally step on the wrong side of an HOA.
  
  Report this comment
- trinklefinder
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 8:18am
  Meanwhile, children starve to death in Africa. It absolutely amazes me how we purposely make our lives miserable and filled with rigid rules. I’d rather live in the city, then some Stepfordish suburb where I can’t have pink playhouses, and flags or where I have to get permission to put a pool in or build a shed ON MY PROPERTY! I guess some folks just like livin by other folks rules. Not me. I just told my neighbor that if she ever let her weeds get as high as they were then Ima call the city on her, I then went and weeded her lawn and harassed her to go buy a weed eater. They haven’t grown tall since. No need for HOA’s.
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 9:25am
  ZHAAN
  I really don’t understand why you don’t understand the concept of choice. I have never said everyone must buy a house in a neighborhood with a HOA. I have never said all HOA’s are perfect. All I can speak to is the HOA I am part of in my neighborhood. Are you a leftist? You apparently you hate for people to make any choice different than your choice. I never even commented about the pink play house. All I said is some people like HOA’s and it works for them. I respect your choice not to buy in a HOA neighborhood. Why can’t you respect my right to choose to live in a neighborhood with a HOA?
  
  Report this comment
- daveycrokett
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 10:34am
  hugh your an idiot your the big govt lover and appeaser telling others whatbto do with their property, do you go around looking in their windows too making sure they are obeying the rules HOA’s should be illegal, you can not tell people what to do with their own property, this is not a communist country…yet
  
  Report this comment
- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 11:15am
  Hey davey
  I don’t think you know what a communist is. I think people should be able to choose for them self if they do or don’t want to live in a HOA neighborhood. You think because you personally don’t like HOA’s they should be illegal and no one should be able to have a HOA if they want one. HOA are governed by people that live in the neighborhood and are elected by their neighbors, the government has nothing to do with HOA’s. If enough people like you that want to crush other people freedom of choice then this will become a communist country. I may be an idiot for liking the HOA in my neighborhood but, you sir are the communist forcing your will on others not me.
  
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- coffeeman402
  Posted on September 24, 2012 at 6:02am
  The “pink playhouse” parents should start complaining about the neighbors about everything, grass is 1/4 inch too long” , garage door open, kids playing in street because they can’t have toys in their yard – basketball bouncing, call the HOA every hour on every day and complain about anything then demand that the immediately review and send letter to the offender, call and state that Old Hugh is too ugly for the neighborhood and he is living there will hurt the neighborhoods value
  
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larmijo
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:49pm
Lots of people make the mistake of buying a house with an HOA, if they can afford it. I did, and yes, it was horrible, and I never will again. What people don’t realize is that very few neighbors leave appliances in their front yard, or refuse to mow the grass. Those cases are usually rental houses and the landlords almost always clean it up. HOA’s are like unions; they are not needed and if those involved in the dispute would just communicate, usually the outcome is better than before and there is mutual trust instead of mutual hate. This HOA is out-of-line, and hopefully the local news in Georgia will showcase them, so that the neighborhood will lose homeowners and they will have trouble filling their coffers. Or, if all of the homeowners refuse to pay their HOA dues, they will win, because the HOA will not have the money to sue all of them.

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Critters58
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:42pm
Homeowners associations are petty and out of control. Run by people with too much time on their hands, little in their heads for brains and absolutely no compassion for their neighbors. I live in neighborhood with no association. Yes sure some yards are not perfect but when my Dad was ill and dying, a knock on the door always brought a smile, a hot dinner and coffee. My neighbors always are out to help me we are not trying to find something wrong with each other. I am so thankful. I can take a messy yard anytime when I know others are there to help me in difficult times. America you need to grow up and get rid of these neighborhood associations!

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- stevetherealist
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:51pm
  agreed. They are the most communist idea to ever gain ground America. well, aside from glen
  
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- PATTY HENRY
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:30pm
  Here is the “BACK STORY” that many don’t know about: There is a couple in VA. (attorneys) who came up with some HOA “Guidelines” and every HOA in the USA is encouraged to use their formats, their forms, their rules. (And pay dues to these creeps) Then came the local Attorneys – they figured out that they could foreclose on HOA homes easily…a person doesn’t pick up newspapers one day and “gets a letter sent to them” (only it’s never sent) then 6 months later there is a notice of fine that has been exponentially increased for this “infraction” for thousands and thousands. Then someone comes in and offers to buy the home for cheap and resell it.. Usually the Property Management Company in collusion with this attorney. (You knew there had to be a scam somewhere) . This was rampant until about 5 years ago when the housing market went down toilet…now that homes are way upside down, the little “Notify;Fine; Foreclose” scam died a natural death. This was happening all across the USA: TX, CA, FL, too. Cities like the HOA’s because that’s one fewer set of roads they have to deal with. THE SOLUTION?: BE AWARE. I would also say to require Property Management Companies to be licensed Real Estate people, that would require FBI background checks. There are benefits, but of course the crooks have found their way into the honey pot of money called the HOA monthly dues. BUYER BEWARE.
  
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- American Soldier (Separated)
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:03pm
  Steve, I could list many more things in America that are more communistic than HOAs.
  
  The point is, they knew there was an HOA when they moved in and they understood the covenants of them before buying and moving in. They knew.
  
  They could have found a place without an HOA and even save on the yearly dues, but they chose that house in that HOA. Would I ever live in an HOA? Probably not. It’s expensive to maintain things to their standards. But it was their choice.
  
  We all talk about the divide between federal and state/local government. Well this is a case where the locals in your neighborhood determined it necessary to have an HOA for whatever reason, increase the overall property values, whatever. But it was determined by the majority and accepted by all (you accept it by moving in and signing the HOA agreement) so how is this exactly communistic? It was all optional and they had the option to run as fast as they could once they heard those three letters. But they didn’t. Live with it. Or move out.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:33pm
  AMERICAN SOLDIER
  Thank you for your service to our country. Your post more eloquently stated what I was trying to express. If you want a HOA move in a neighborhood with one, if you don’t like HOA’s don’t.
  
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- Felicianomiko
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:56pm
  I can agree that I will probably never live in an HOA, however, other people are welcome to be members of them should they choose. That’s beauty of having choice, it’s pretty pointless if there are no choices. I will fight tooth and nail to allow HOA’s to exist, because that’s what freedom is about. To me, there is nothing different about this than choosing to smoke or drink or eat a vegan diet. I am not the policeman of your bad choices, I’m not here to put rubber bumpies on the cabinets, round the scissors and put shredded tires on the floor to keep people from hurting themselves. I am all for communities being governed by different methods, how else do we try new systems? Isn’t that part of the reason for an America to begin with?
  
  Just my two cents.
  
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- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 10:30pm
  Re: Soldier
  They didn’t know what they were getting into.
  I once had a neighbor who wanted to give me grief over a dog that was dumped in the neighborhood. I found the dog a new home, but if we lived in an HOA, I could be in this woman’s place. Harassed for no reason.
  As it was, I stood there and stared at him til he went back in his house. He didn’t have the will to fight me and he had NO legal recourse to harrass me!!!
  
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Marc Conder
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:40pm
Perhaps she could compromise with a white fence around the pink house, thereby removing it from the sight of the annoying neighbors. P.S. this is still America, we have the legal right to face our accusers. Grandmother, its time to take the HOA to court to find out who is so offended by a childs play house. And then sue the everlovin pajammas right off the resident grand wizards! JS….

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- normalmom
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:16pm
  Finding out who is complaining is a good idea. Find out why they are so picky about someone elses property.
  
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Grand design
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:39pm
Crime must be way down at the HOA! This is yet another reason to never live in a HOA tract.
The house nazi’s will always find something to complain about!

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- Stelex
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:38pm
  They are nothing but little Communist communities. These idiots love being told how to live…..Its sick
  
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- bannedfromCNN
  Posted on September 24, 2012 at 7:29am
  Here’s my HOA story – A few years ago, we moved into a golf course community in NC. As the home was new construction, it was in need of some finishing landscaping. Our HOA stated that any landscaping plans must be submitted in advance of any work being done and must be approved. We submitted detailed drawings of our proposed landscaping, including details on the individual plants, location and relationship to neighboring properties, all in scale, of course.
  
  The HOA rejected our plans, due to the fact that they were “not submitted on official HOA forms”.
  
  The HOA then sent us the “official HOA forms”, which were blank 8 1/2 x 11 sheets of paper.
  
  Once the smoke stopped rolling from my ears, we went ahead with our landscaping anyway and never heard another word from our beloved HOA.
  
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Chunkyrhyno
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:36pm
its just like most of the labor unions,,,,,stuffing their pockets with everyone else’s money.

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pissantno.10
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:34pm
these dirty birdies should have there property taken from then and sold and the money sent to lord obama. what evil grandparents take them to a aarp reeducation camp and if that does not work its time for an obama pill

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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:40pm
  That made no sense at all.
  
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- pissantno.10
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:51pm
  ya it was just for you haha
  
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- pissantno.10
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:57pm
  but i can relate to ya hugh here at slick willes trailer park the people two trailers down bought there kids a new wallmart swing set and my kids now are unhappy with there old truck tire swing what a bummer and whats wrong with an old washer on the porch fill full of ice and beer.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:04pm
  You actually just described my childhood. That is why I refuse to live like that now.
  
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- pissantno.10
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:36pm
  well hugh i do not live that way any more either but i look back at it and it was some of the best times of my life. times were a lot simpler and i just had a lot of fun with a little of nothing. best to ya hugh :)
  
  :
  
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BrotherWill
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:33pm
You would have to be a complete moron to move into a neighborhood with a HOA. Seriously.

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- Exrepublisheep
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:35pm
  Yup.
  
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Hugh Williams
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:32pm
One of the reasons I bought the house I did is because it is in a neighborhood that has a HOA. Depending on where you live you make a $100,000, $200,000 and usually more investment in your home. For most people this is the largest investment you will ever make. Investing this amount of money I want to be sure my neighbors take care of their property. I don’t want 2 foot tall grass next door because my neighbor doesn’t like to mow. I don’t want my neighbor to buy a new washer and leave to old one in the front yard. If you don’t like the restrictions of a HOA then do your research before you buy and don’t buy a house in a HOA neighborhood. When people choose to live in the same neighborhood and choose the rules they all will follow this is not oppression. If you don’t like the rules of your HOA or the leadership then get involved and work to make changes.
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- jg2pto
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:45pm
  You are stupid. I got all the luxury of having good neighbors because I act like a good neighbor, not because there are Nazi like policies in place to stop them, nor do my neighbors feel like they have to report me to the Gestapo either. But you keep on thinking that fiefdom you willingly moved into is the next best thing since sliced bread. HOAs…as un-American as you can get.
  
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- Dr Vel
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:57pm
  Intolerant complaining neighbors make a neighborhood worth nothing now matter how much the houses cost. Like liberals they back up their opinions by picking unrelated extreme examples. Their grass looks fine, so does the nice new pink playhouse for a little girl in your neighbors yard. Grass is not the issue. Living in a kind loving neighborhood makes life better and more comfortable. People don’t get very many of these years in life when their little ones are at that age. When they are gone it’s forever. Why would you use an extreme example of lousy upkeep of the yard to justify your home owners association Stasi tactics when their yard looks nice and has nothing to do with the issue. You rob people and their children of a few magic years of happiness so you can keep your bitter investment. Do not worry she said she would move first so you will be able to enjoy your lonely bitter sunset years in complete silence.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:59pm
  Different strockes for different folks.Bubba.If you DON”T WANT TO LIVE IN A HOA NEIGHBORHOOD THEN DON”T. I personally prefer it over living next to low life trash like you.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:09pm
  DR Vel
  Have you ever heard of anyone having a gun to their head and forced to buy a house in a HOA neighborhood? If you don’t want to live by the HOA rules established by the HOA members that live in the neighborhood then don’t buy in that neighborhood. How complicated is that?
  
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- Lt_Scrounge
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:47pm
  Actually Hugh, during the height of the housing boom in Phoenix, you had a choice of buying a house in a lousy neighborhood, or buying in an HOA controlled development. I chose the former and had to deal with numerous thefts and burglaries from property and outbuildings. BUT I didn’t have to deal with nasty notices and fines if I failed to cut my grass every day off, or if I set my $1000+ canvas tent up in the backyard to dry after a rainy camping trip. I didn’t have complaints about me doing woodworking in my backyard at night after work. Yes, I had to put up with a lot of things, but the local HOA nazis wasn’t one of them. I’ve had a home in an HOA before and never again. I actually cancelled a 40 acre purchase when I discovered that the area had covenants concerning what I could do on MY LAND, including target shooting. Exactly WHY would anyone buy 40 acres of country property without being able to do what they want on it? As soon as the realtor handed me the covenants, I read through them and asked for my down payment check back. I realize that there are people who want to live in a completely controlled environment, those of us who prefer freedom aren’t among them.
  
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- Guitarcarl
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:30pm
  I agree that HOA controlled neighborhoods have a place but clearly this situation has gotten way out of hand. There is no way that little playhouse, which is well cared for and attractive, has a derogatory effect on neighborhood home values. This instance is being driven by something other than the best interest of the residents. Defending the action being taken against this family on the basis of failing to follow procedure or it having an adverse impact on property values is petty at best and malicious at worse. Taking a course that is wrong because it is policy or procedure is still wrong. Be a good man and stand up and say the truth the playhouse is not hurting anyone.
  
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- ws87171
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:26pm
  Hugh is right on with this. I bet 90% of the people on this site believe in libertarian ideals – small, localized government, freedom, and personal responsibility. This is the perfect example of exactly that. A small local organization makes rules, and the residents have the personal responsibility to learn about the rules, and likewise the freedom to abide by those rules or move out. If you are a libertarian or believe in their core values, and are upset by this article, better re-evaluate your beliefs.
  
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- Dr Vel
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:32pm
  Hugh clearly with your words “I personally prefer it over living next to low life trash like you.” prove beyond any doubt what kind of bitter neighbor you are. You sure sound like the person who instigated the persecution of the little girl and her family. Costing them money they can ill afford in this economy. If not them we can be sure from your words and therefore attitude and overall personality someone in your neighborhood has been persecuted by you. What goes around comes around.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:48pm
  WS87171
  Thank you for your support. Apparently freedom of choice is not very popular with most people at this site.
  
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- christos
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:13pm
  hugh williams- Those People you refer to as trash,the Bible says Love others as I/+JESUS+GOD+ love you,Forgive others as +JESUS+GOD+ have forgiven you,,,you have fulfilled the Law of +JESUS+GOD+ if you Love everyone including your enemies,,that is not right to call people trash….Stop It,,,,+JESUS+GOD+ died for the Trash/People too,,,,maybe you should reconsider & personally get involved to help some of these Trash/People I will pray for you.
  
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- Stelex
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:36pm
  Hugh, you’ve given us a good idea where all the communist like to live. Thanks for that. When the sht hits the fan, I know where to go. Only a communist would live in such an environment. You are one sick dude and I pitty you
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:58pm
  CHRISTOS
  
  Before I called them low life trash (which was wrong on my part) I was called stupid with Nazi like policies by JG2PTO. Dr VEL said I was robbing people and their children of a few magic years and I was lonely and bitter. I was called selfish, greedy, a troll, stupid, a Nazi, I was told my head is in my a**. I was accused of having mothball breath; people wished I had no grandchildren, one person said my picture looks like I am on my way out (I will die soon). All of this because I think people should be free to choose whether they buy a house in a neighborhood with a HOA or in a neighborhood without a HOA. And you are going to pray for me? I am not very big on turn the other cheek. THE ONLY THING I REGRET SAYING IS LOW LIFE TRASH!
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:08pm
  STELEX
  Come on over but, you better come heavy brother.
  
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- this1can
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 9:56pm
  I can understand not wanting a junk yard next door. This isn’t the case its a pink play house. How long will it be there, kids grow up fast. Let her play while she can. The person that’s complaining should be ashamed. Our country is falling apart. Use that extra BIC hen time for something that will help this country. Love/pray
  
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JustPeachy
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:28pm
So with ALL the problems in the country, in the WORLD, a few people can’t tolerate a pink child’s playhouse in SOME ELSE’S YARD?!? REALLY??? This is what it has come to, people?!?

Those people who have a problem with this NEED TO GET A LIFE.

And I don’t blame the grandmother for saying she will move first! In fact, if she decides to move, I hope some kind real estate agent will help her sell her home and find a new one where pink playhouses aren’t “outlawed.”

For crying out loud.

Again, and I hope you people who are giving this woman a hard time are reading this: You REALLY REALLY REALLY need to get a LIFE!

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- quiltgal
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:33pm
  I agree. Buyers beware. A number of residents in these neighborhood collectives with excessive rules are apt to be anal neatniks, intolerant control freaks, or meddling busybodies with too much time on their hands. And unfortunately, minority opinion seems to rule these days and individual rights are becoming passe. I’d never buy a house in such a “revolting development.”
  
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- Stelex
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:41pm
  This is communism on the local scale…..these are the people to look out for. They are not fans of free will.
  
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WhiteFang
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:27pm
Sometimes a little girl has to face the reality of stupid regulations that the adults put in place by joining a HOA. Sometimes we all have to do what we do not want to, even little girls. It will be a good lesson for her to learn about HOA’s.

Paint the play house and get on with life.

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olddog
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:25pm
Put the playhouse in an old trailer with wheels and leave it sit where it is..

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The-Monk
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:24pm
“But the Mills Haven Homeowner’s Association is taking her to court because she didn‘t first get approval for the structure’s color.”

So, it is possible to have a pink play house if it’s approved first?

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- RJJinGadsden
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:29pm
  Hi MONK, probably not, but they want them to follow the procedure all the way to where they are turned down. I love living out in a rural area, and plan to stay here.
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:44pm
  If your next door neighbor painted their house purple with bright pink shutters would you be happy. Do you think this could affect the value of your house if you went to sell it?
  
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- RJJinGadsden
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:30pm
  HUGH WILLIAMS, I don’t really have any neighbors. One would have to travel through open woods on either side for quite the distance to get to another house.
  If you wish to live that way, I have no problem with it. What I do have a problem with is power mad HOA presidents, and I have known of several around here, who have made life hell for their ‘serf home owners.’
  
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- highcarry
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:00pm
  yeah, thats why i live waaaaaaaay out in the country.
  
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- Taquoshi
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 7:00pm
  Hugh, we actually do have a purple house here in town that is complete with pink shutters. It’s been that way for years. We’ve all gotten used to it. As a matter of fact, people use it as a landmark when giving directions.
  
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- Stelex
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 8:44pm
  Hughgly…..your a communist. Do you realize that. If your folk gain power we will all be wearing gray suits.
  
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froggy19510
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:19pm
If you live in a neighborhood that has a HOA you gotta follow the rules. That’s why I wouldn’t live in one. Unfortunatly there will always be people who want to tell others what to do and it is only going to get worse. Sad isn’t it.

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SpaceCoyote
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:17pm
wholly agree. I also would move from such a place before painting an “approved” color.

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- drs1969
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 10:42pm
  The sooner the better. House prices are going to fall another 50% in some markets before they find a real bottom.
  
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olddog
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:16pm
Nosey Complaining neighbors like that can ruin a whole community, mind your own business and keep your nose out of others. Hey their making the blood sucking attorneys happy with their petiness.

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JACKTHETOAD
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:16pm
Insane Stepford zombies.The poor bastards.

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GaltLine
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:14pm
Let all central planners be forced to live in that homeowner’s association’s properties. It will serve them right.

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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:39pm
  What central planners are you referring to? The leaders of HOA are people that live in the neighborhood. Every member of a HOA has a financial investment in that neighborhood. Every home owner in the neighborhood has the power to affect the property values of everyone else in the neighborhood. If you want to live with no rules then move to a rural location without a HOA. Then if you want to never mow your grass or put an old car up on blocks in your front yard you can. I choose to live in a neighborhood with a HOA, that is my choice.
  
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Psychosis
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:13pm
the tyranny of the minority

why would anyone live in an association is beyond me ……………………its my property, kiss my fourth point of contact

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Texas Hills Patriot
Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:10pm
I’d buy an old car for fifty bucks, paint it pink and park it in the driveway.

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- RJJinGadsden
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:25pm
  With a brush too!
  
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- GaltLine
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:29pm
  Can the homeowner paint her whole house pink? Shingle the roof in pink?
  
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- Hugh Williams
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 4:48pm
  It is because of people like you that I made sure my house was in a HOA neighborhood before I bought it. I am not spending $250,000 on a house and have you destroy the property value of the entire neighborhood.
  
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- grimmster
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 5:08pm
  @Texas hills patriot.
  Here in Texas, thats more likely to happen than not, least here in Austin….;p
  
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- RJJinGadsden
  Posted on September 22, 2012 at 6:40pm
  HUGH WILLIAMS, Chill please, and don’t hurt yourself. A lot of what you are reading here is sarcasm. We do at least for the most part understand that if you choose to live in an HOA, you have to abide by the rules. I’m sure that each homeowner/resident has a copy of the bylaws and should review them before trying to make a change or addition to their homes.
  
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- jeffile
  Posted on September 23, 2012 at 11:21am
  Hmmmmm. I seem to believe “the rules need to be followed” was used by those in favor of Jim Crow laws. It’s common practice to interject someone’s personal agenda within laws and rules. Many times they unexpected consequences are felt.
  
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