A homeowners association (HOA) is an organization that makes and enforces rules and guidelines for a residential subdivision, planned community, or condominium building. In most cases, residents within the subdivision, community, or building must become members of the HOA, agree to follow the HOA’s rules, and pay HOA fees and assessments. HOAs are usually governed by a board of directors or governors that is elected by the homeowners to make decisions about the HOA and enforce its rules.