Read your HOA Bylaws. Generally, the association has a lien against the property for unpaid dues. Any such liens are subordinate ("junior") to the purchase money mortgage and any other existing liens. The association can then file a lawsuit to foreclose the lien and sell the property. Do you have equity in the home? Or is it underwater? There is no point in the HOA foreclosing the lien if there is no equity since the HOA can only collect sale proceeds that exceed the total of the senior liens.
Answered on Apr 01st, 2013 at 9:10 PM