You’ve found your dream beach home—but before you make an offer, there’s one more number to understand: your monthly HOA or condo fee.

In North Myrtle Beach, many communities—especially condos and resort-style neighborhoods—have Homeowners Associations (HOAs). These fees can affect your monthly budget, your lifestyle, and even your long-term property value. Here’s what every buyer should know.

💰 What HOA and Condo Fees Typically Cover

HOA and condo fees vary depending on the community, but most include:

• Exterior maintenance: Landscaping, pest control, and common-area upkeep.
• Amenities: Pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, or beach access.
• Trash, water, or cable services: Some communities bundle utilities into the HOA.
• Insurance: Condo fees often include exterior or building insurance, which can lower your personal policy cost.

Example: In a community like Ocean Keyes, fees may cover exterior maintenance, lawn care, internet, and insurance. In Barefoot Resort, homeowners gain access to pools, golf course privileges, and a shuttle to the beach.

🏖️ The Coastal Difference

Coastal communities face unique environmental factors—salt air, wind, and weather—so HOAs often include additional costs for exterior upkeep and storm preparation.

While this might make monthly fees look higher, these funds protect your investment and preserve property values in the long run. It’s one reason homes in well-managed HOAs tend to age beautifully.

📋 What’s Not Included

It’s just as important to know what your fees don’t include. Typically, you’ll still pay for:

• Interior maintenance (appliances, HVAC, plumbing, etc.)
• Property taxes
• Individual homeowners or condo insurance (for interior contents)
• Optional upgrades or special assessments

Always ask your REALTOR® or property manager for a copy of the HOA budget and recent meeting notes before closing. These reveal how well the community is managed—and whether any major repairs are planned.

⚖️ How to Compare HOA and Condo Fees

When evaluating multiple properties, don’t just look at the fee amount—look at the value.
A $400 monthly fee that includes insurance, cable, and full amenities may cost less in the end than a $250 fee that covers only lawn care.

Pro tip: Ask about the community’s reserve fund. A healthy reserve shows proactive management and reduces the risk of surprise assessments.

🤝 Make an Informed Decision

Whether you’re buying a condo near the ocean or a single-family home in a gated neighborhood, understanding HOA and condo fees in North Myrtle Beach is essential.

I’ll help you review the details, evaluate what’s worth paying for, and find the community that matches both your lifestyle and your financial comfort.

Call me, Kim Stevens, REALTOR®, at (843) 222-9327 or email KimStevens100@gmail.com—and let’s find your perfect North Myrtle Beach home, with no surprises along the way.