Deed Restriction Enforcement
Judy Gordon - Chaparral Management

TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR HOUSE FROM THE STREET...

What is Curb Appeal? It is the first impression your home makes on a visitor, your neighbors or a potential buyer to the community when pulling up to the curb! "Curb appeal" has nothing to do with the size of your house, whether you have a lawn service company or whether you spend a lot of money. "Curb appeal" means making the most of your house and protecting your property values.

Every homeowner must be committed to make the "curb appeal" of their home the best it can be, and it can be done with small and large efforts. This subdivision is a deed-restricted community and you can consider the deed restrictions as protection for "Curb Appeal".

What are deed restrictions? In the absence of zoning in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, the deed restrictions are imposed on the land to protect property values and assure a uniform and consistent approach to development. The original developer of the subdivision had a vision for the development of the community, and the deed restrictions are the blue print for the vision. In addition and limitations on exterior colors, the deed restrictions also spell out the specific use restrictions for the property.

The deed restrictions are the "Rule" book for the community. The deed restrictions outline the responsibilities of each homeowner to the other, and allow for remedies to correct if a homeowner does not comply. The Architectural Control Committee, the annual maintenance fund, the late fees and interest authorized are all outlined in the deed restrictions.

What are Use Restrictions? The Use restrictions outline what the property can and cannot be used for. As an example, a single-family residential structure cannot be used for an office building. The Use restrictions also restrict certain types of situations to exist on properties within the subdivision, no boats, campers, trailers, recreational vehicles. The Use restrictions also outline the requirement for the residents to maintain their property in good condition, mowing, edging and weeding of flowerbeds are a good example of this restriction.

Why do we need deed restrictions? Deed restriction enforcement and property values go hand in hand. Drive thru any neighborhood and from the "CURB APPEAL" (deed restriction enforcement) you will determine if the community is a place you would want to live. Are the yards well kept? does it appear the residents take pride in their homes? Are the homes well maintained? Are there junk and inoperable cars stored in driveways? Are there boats, campers or trailers parked in the driveways or on the street? The real estate community will advise you when showing a house for sale of the things that need to be done to make the house "show better". A touch up of paint here and there, cleaning the carpet, cleaning out closets, all improve your ability to sell your home for your list price. The enforcement of deed restrictions help your community "show better" and everyone in the community benefits. Be proud of the community.

Please abide by the deed restrictions, they are protection for all.