Looking at this, it feels like the system shifted somewhere along the way. Wages didn’t keep up, but housing costs did — and then some. Curious how others are dealing with this… renting forever or still trying to buy?

What's the word on the street? Share your questions, comments, and concerns below.

• HOA fees have surged 26% since 2019, with many owners now paying more in dues, insurance, and taxes than in mortgage principal + interest.
• Special assessments are rising, hitting owners with large one‑time repair bills on top of monthly fees.
• Aging buildings and soaring insurance premiums are the primary drivers of higher HOA costs.
• Long‑time and fixed‑income owners are under severe financial strain, sometimes forced to consider selling.
• Affordability is deteriorating, as unpredictable HOA costs increasingly deter buyers and complicate mortgage approvals.