Thinking about listing your Georgetown home but not sure what your HOA expects before you go live? You are not alone. Many great listings stumble because a resale packet or approval is missing at the wrong moment. In this guide, you will learn exactly which HOA items to secure, the timelines and costs to expect, and how to keep your sale in 78633 moving on schedule. Let’s dive in.
Selling in a homeowners association means you answer to two sets of rules: the HOA’s governing documents and local requirements from the City of Georgetown and Williamson County. Buyers and lenders will expect clear proof that your home is in good standing with the HOA. That includes financial status, rule compliance, and any approvals for exterior work you completed.
A complete, accurate HOA resale or estoppel certificate is often required for closing. It tells the buyer and title company whether assessments are current, if any special assessments are planned, and where to find the association’s rules. When this packet is late, the whole transaction can slow down.
The resale or estoppel certificate is the cornerstone of an HOA sale. It summarizes your dues status, any unpaid amounts, special assessments, insurance information, and how to access the CCRs, bylaws, and rules. Title companies and lenders rely on it to clear closing conditions.
Sellers often benefit from ordering this early, even if the buyer typically requests it. Early ordering helps you spot issues like unpaid balances or outdated contact info. If your HOA or management company offers expedited processing, ask about the cost and timeline.
If you added or changed anything on the exterior, gather the original architectural approvals. Common examples include fences, decks, patio covers, exterior paint, driveways, additions, solar panels, and major landscaping.
If you completed work without prior approval, many associations require a retroactive application. Start that process now. Buyers often ask for written proof that exterior changes meet HOA guidelines, and delays here can derail closing.
Request a written statement from the HOA that shows whether you have any open violations. If a notice was issued for landscaping, exterior maintenance, or parking, keep all receipts and correspondence after you correct it.
If a violation is complex or will take time to resolve, ask the HOA to put expected steps and timing in writing. You want to show buyers a clear path to compliance so they feel confident moving forward.
Obtain a current HOA account statement showing you are paid through a certain date. Title will need assurance that there are no unpaid assessments or liens that could impact closing. If a balance exists, discuss payoff at closing with your title company.
If your HOA is budgeting a capital project or considering a special assessment, the resale packet usually notes it. Disclose what you know and provide the documents. Surprise assessments are a common cause of late-stage renegotiation.
If your buyer wants the option to rent, they will ask about leasing restrictions. Some associations limit short-term rentals, set minimum lease terms, or require an owner-occupancy period. Gather the relevant rule language or show where it appears in the HOA documents.
Clear disclosure of rental rules early in the process helps you target the right buyer pool. It also reduces the chance of the deal falling apart during the option period.
Many HOAs have rules for “For Sale” signs, open house signs, and lockbox placement. Some gated communities require specific sign sizes or limit weekend open houses. Confirm gate codes, guest access, and showing hours.
Coordinate with your listing agent to build a marketing plan that follows HOA rules. A compliant plan avoids fines and keeps relations with the HOA positive during your sale.
Aim to order the resale or estoppel packet 2 to 3 weeks before you list. If you must list quickly, order as soon as you decide to sell. Turnaround time varies by HOA and management company, from a few business days to a few weeks.
If your community is volunteer-run or the management company is backed up, consider an expedited option if offered. Fast processing can be worth the extra fee when you want to hit the market on schedule.
Resale or estoppel packets commonly cost about 150 to 400 dollars, with rush fees available for an added charge. Architectural review fees vary based on scope and can range from about 25 to 250 dollars, though specialized reviews may cost more.
If you have unpaid assessments or late fees, expect to clear them before or at closing. For exterior work that required city permits, check the City of Georgetown fee schedule to estimate costs related to inspections or permit closeout.
Use this checklist to keep your sale moving smoothly from day one:
Order the resale or estoppel packet 2 to 3 weeks before listing. If you are on a fast timeline, order immediately.
Collect architectural approvals for any exterior changes. If approvals are missing, start a retroactive application right away and document status.
Resolve simple violations and keep receipts. For bigger issues, request written confirmation on steps and timing.
Confirm sign, lockbox, open house, and showing rules. Align your marketing plan with these guidelines.
Obtain a current HOA account statement showing dues paid through a date. Coordinate payoff instructions for any balance with your title company.
Check City of Georgetown permit and inspection records for major work like roofs or additions. Make sure municipal requirements are satisfied.
Prepare disclosures. Complete the TREC Seller’s Disclosure Notice and include known facts such as special assessments or HOA litigation.
Confirm whether your property is in a special taxing district like a MUD or PID. Use Williamson County resources to identify and disclose any related assessments.
HOA rules and city codes both apply. If you replaced a roof, changed exterior paint where required, or added structures like a pergola, verify city permits and final inspections as needed. Meeting both HOA and city standards creates a clean paper trail for buyers and lenders.
Williamson County records and the Williamson County Appraisal District help you confirm parcel and tax details. If your home sits in a special district, gather the notice or assessment information for buyer review. Buyers appreciate clear, upfront numbers.
Some 78633 communities have gates and specific sign guidelines. Clarify guest access, gate codes, and where signs are allowed. If a community limits open houses, plan for targeted private showings and strong digital exposure to reach qualified buyers.
You deserve a listing experience that is both polished and predictable. Our team guides you through each HOA step so you avoid last-minute surprises. We coordinate with the HOA and management company, organize your approvals and disclosures, and align the marketing plan with community rules.
With full-service seller representation, premium marketing, and the reach of a national brand, we position your home to stand out while keeping the process calm and clear. If your sale involves custom work or remodel history, we help gather permits and approvals so buyers can evaluate with confidence. Our goal is simple: protect your interests, remove friction, and deliver an on-time, well-prepared closing.
If you are thinking about selling in Georgetown or 78633, we would love to help you prepare a standout launch that checks every HOA box. Connect with the Merissa Anderson Group for a friendly, focused strategy session. Let’s write your story of home. Schedule a free consultation.
Whether you're moving up or looking for your dream home, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make your real estate journey a seamless success!
275 SE INNER LOOP GEORGETOWN TX 78626