There has been a lot of controversy about Homeowners Associations. Many neighborhood subdivisions and condo complexes have them.. Good ones can do a lot to help maintain community solidarity without being dictatorial. Bad ones can make life miserable for many homeowners (just ask people who've actually had liens put on their homes for not following rules or paying dues!).
     If you decide to buy a home in a neighborhood with a homeowner's association, try to find out what you can ahead of time. Then decide whether to buy or not. I happen to be in a neighborhood with one and have found it to be a very positive experience; however, our association is very loose, does NOT require dues (although they are requested and nearly everyone pays) and does not have rules and regulations about landscaping, window curtains, etc. In short, it provides community support without a lot of fuss.
      Having heard nightmare stories about other associations, I've put together a starting point for asking questions if you decide to buy a home or condo in an area with an Association:
    
1. What are the annual dues and/or fees?  How often have the dues risen in past years and by how much? Is there a limit to how much fees can rise per year? Are dues mandatory (believe it or not, in some areas they are strictly voluntary and there is no penalty or fine for nonpayment)

2. What do the dues pay for? Dues may pay for snow removal, maintenance of a common entranceway with landscaping, pool maintenance, etc.

3. Does the Association have rules about window coverings, landscaping, etc...that is allowed in the neighborhood? If so, what are they?

4. Are there annual meetings or other events?

5. Are there restrictions concerning pets that go beyond the normal laws about keeping dogs on leashes, etc?

6. Are there fines and penalties for breaking any of the rules or regulations?

7. Is there a budget and accounting for expenses that is given to each member or shown openly at some point each year?

8. Is there a neighborhood directory and/or security patrol? Is this paid for by Association fees?

9. Is there a limit on how much dues and fees can rise per year or on "one time expenses" for renovation (don't set yourself up for "sticker shock" by buying in an area where the Board can assess whatever fees it wants, whenever it wants).