The Dictionary defines the word covenant simply as "an agreement" but what does it mean when it pertains to building a new home or choosing the community that is the right fit for you?

What are neighborhood covenants?

In the context of a neighborhood, a covenant refers to a set of rules or restrictions that homeowners agree to abide by as part of a formal agreement or contract. These covenants are typically established by the land developer or the homeowners' association (HOA) to maintain a certain standard and ensure a cohesive and harmonious community.That doesn't mean they are always easy to understand or keep track of.

With the primary goal to protect property values and maintain a consistent aesthetic within the neighborhood, some covenants can get very detailed. House covenants can cover a wide range of issues, including architectural guidelines, landscaping requirements, maintenance standards, and rules related to property use. Common provisions might include restrictions on the color of exterior paint, the size and style of buildings, the type of fencing allowed, and even rules about parking or the presence of certain structures (like sheds or satellite dishes). It's important for homeowners to be aware of the rules and restrictions before moving into their community.

This can be a lot to wrap your mind around especially when building from scratch. 

How Can Jerry's Homes Help Take the Headache Out of Understanding Covenants?

Building your dream home is an exciting venture, but it's essential to be aware of any rules or restrictions that may impact your vision. Homeowners often find themselves navigating a maze of guidelines designed to maintain the overall aesthetics and harmony of the community. At Jerry's, we are here to help eliminate the hassle of dealing with covenants with our years of knowledge, building homes in Des Moines since 1957. We already have sets of rules and guidelines for each of our communities around the metro and begin our home building process around them! Enjoy peace of mind.

Pre-Construction Research: Before breaking ground, Jerry's Homes conducts thorough research on the covenants applicable to your chosen neighborhood. Understanding these rules upfront can help you align your vision with the community's expectations.

Architectural Approval Process: Most covenants require homeowners to seek approval for their building plans. Jerry's Homes eliminates that step by only providing you with plans that fit within approved lots. Otherwise, you would have to prepare to submit your architectural designs to the homeowners' association for review. This step ensures your project aligns with the established guidelines.

Budgeting for Compliance: Sometimes additional costs are associated with complying with the covenants. Certain specifications, such as specific building materials like LP siding, extra stone, landscaping requirements, or painted foundations, may impact your budget. We take each of these into account on a house-by-house basis. Each home design is different, and material costs will vary plan to plan. Each new buyer will receive a copy of their desired community's covenants to sign off on before moving forward with building plans.

Long-Term Considerations: Recognize that covenants aren't just about the construction phase. They will continue to shape your experience as a homeowner, influencing decisions related to property maintenance, renovations, and exterior modifications.

As you embark on the exciting journey of building a new home with Jerry's Homes, understanding the neighborhood covenants is important. These guidelines are not meant to hinder your creativity but rather to foster a sense of cohesiveness and maintain property values. Make sure to take the time to read through all paperwork regarding building and living in your new community to familiarize yourself. Our professional team of designers and agents are always here to help if you have questions!