In today’s housing landscape, homeowners association (HOA) fees are taking center stage in the affordability conversation — and their impact is being felt right here in Santa Clara County.
We recently went into contract on 1045 Summershore Ct. after only 50 days on the market, which is well below the county’s average of 95 days for condos. While that’s a bright spot, we’ve noticed a growing trend: elevated monthly HOA dues are making it harder for condos to sell quickly, and we believe these rising fees have hindered overall condo activity in the area.
Why HOA Fees Are Climbing
According to a recent Independent report, HOA and condo fees have surged nearly 30% since before the pandemic. The median monthly condo fee hit $420 in 2025, up 29% since 2019, while single-family HOA fees rose 26%, reaching $63 last year, according to The Wall Street Journal and Realtor.com.
These fees cover things like building maintenance, insurance, landscaping, and shared amenities — but those costs have climbed sharply as labor, materials, and property insurance continue to get more expensive.
“All these things are pricing some people out of homeownership,” says Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com.
Even as mortgage rates inch lower, HOA dues and other ownership costs may keep moving higher, making it more difficult for first-time or budget-conscious buyers to step into the market.
Real Stories of the Burden
Across the U.S., nearly 22 million homeowners now pay some form of HOA or condo fee — and for about 3 million of those households, the fee exceeds $500 per month. Many associations are struggling to manage rising maintenance and insurance costs, with some opting to cut amenities or reduce services like watering grass to keep budgets under control.
For example, Donald DeFesi of Walnut Creek shared that his condo dues doubled since 2015, now reaching $1,500 per month — more than his monthly mortgage payment.
What It Means for Local Buyers and Sellers
In competitive Bay Area markets like Santa Clara, higher HOA fees are increasingly influencing buyer decisions. Many prospective condo buyers are pausing their search or limiting what they can afford, which has lengthened selling times overall.
That’s why properties like 1045 Summershore Ct. stand out — selling in 50 days despite the challenging environment — and highlight the importance of smart pricing, strong marketing, and a clear understanding of what buyers value most in today’s market.
If you’re considering selling your condo or curious how your HOA fees may impact your property’s marketability, let’s connect for a targeted market analysis.