Every piece of the monthly housing cost, itemised
HOA dues and lenders
In short
Lenders include homeowners association or condo dues in your monthly housing expense when they measure debt-to-income, even though the dues are usually paid to the association and not through escrow. Higher dues can lower the loan amount you qualify for, so ask for the current dues and any planned increases early.
Last reviewed against the primary sources listed below.
Ask the association
- Current monthly or annual dues.
- Planned increases.
- Any special assessment.
Line-item questions
Are HOA fees included in debt-to-income?
Yes, lenders generally count them in the monthly housing expense.
Are HOA dues paid through escrow?
Usually not; most owners pay the association directly.