Protecting Your Home: An HOA Survival Guide for Black Residents

Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— Psalm 103:2 NIV

Good day. I want to assert that I am an American. Society recognizes me as an older woman of color, and I proudly embrace this identity. The words of God affirm that I am His child. As my spiritual connection to Him keeps me steadfast in my growth and evolution on my spiritual journey. However, my husband reminds me daily that my personality is classified as type “A.” Until today, I had never researched the characteristics associated with this type. I must admit, I am pretty impressed—WOW!

Well, let us commence. I am committed to this series, as it addresses a vital issue affecting Black homeowners living in Homeowner Association (HOA) communities.

Firstly, I would like to inform you that HOAs are a means of land grabbing. And Black people aren’t getting it! We move into these communities with high hope that we are no longer “separate but equal. ” We soon realize our homes are constantly under scrutiny, as the figurative glass ceiling limiting home-ownership shatters around us.

NEW FLASH! Black Americans will never see a day when we are equal to anyone, anybody. Period! Now! Let’s discuss how to protect ourselves, our family, and our properties when living in HOAs.

You must understand these principles clearly if you live in an HOA. This is also important if you are planning to buy a home in an HOA.

If you struggle with discipline when it comes to yard work, an HOA property is not ideal. However, there are pros and cons of living in an HOA. And if you can help your children respect community spaces, they are less likely to be targeted. Maintaining personal boundaries is essential for parents and children residing in HOA communities. Now! Here’s the key to thriving in HOAs: ‘pride of ownership.” If you don’t have it, be prepared for ongoing fines and fees. And! Yes! And HOA can sell your home even if you are current on your mortgage payments! Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Father God, we fervently ask for the mental and spiritual strength to live in HOAs. Ignite in us the wisdom to understand the rules before we dare to challenge them. Unleash a flood of opportunities for living within an HOA as others seek to destroy us. Amen

Day Four – Removing Mental Clutter

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23

A few days ago, life felt intense! Two close friends shared their concerns about what is happening on Capitol Hill and how it could impact Black America. Each discussion ventured into unfamiliar territory. While I can put a face to what’s going on, I don’t fully understand the internal workings and couldn’t offer any comfort regarding our nation’s instability, except for giving personal advice urging them to keep striving for their dreams. That’s something I recommend everyone do in uncertain times. Let’s pray for positive outcomes in every situation.


PRAYER

Heavenly Father, a spirit of discontent looms over America, wreaking havoc both within and beyond our borders. This spirit sows seeds of doubt, strife, envy, hatred, and self-righteousness, leading to reckless and abusive behavior among people. As a result, it robs us of dignity in our interactions, both publicly and privately. Lord, I ask you to bind this spirit and release the spirit of love—love for oneself, love for family, love for humanity, love for our country, and most importantly, love for you. Amen.   

What! Who Doesn’t Want to Go to Disney World?

This video is priceless (totally not what I expected)!  Laughter!  What person doesn’t want to go to Disney World?!!!  They must be insane or something [laughing hysterically].  But after seeing this video your heart will break.  It will have total compassion for the little person that doesn’t feel the same as most of the world when it comes to visiting the most famous place of all.  Disney World!