Why Arizona Homeowners Must Unite for Real Reform

Have you ever stopped to wonder why your homeowners association seems to hold all the power—while your voice as a homeowner feels insignificant? Or why, despite countless stories of abuse, intimidation, and financial overreach, very few laws actually protect the people paying the bills?

The answer is simple, and as with most things in politics—it’s about the money.

The HOA Industry: A Money Machine Funded by Homeowners

Every dollar that fuels the HOA industry—every legal bill, management fee, and service contract—ultimately comes from one source: you, the homeowner. Across Arizona, there are over 3.5 million homeowners living under HOA governance. That’s 3.5 million people funding an entire ecosystem of management companies, law firms, collection agencies, and service providers.

And make no mistake—this industry is not struggling. HOAs have virtually unlimited authority to assess homeowners for their costs, whether for maintenance, legal action, or “administrative” expenses. They can fine, lien, and even foreclose—all without the same oversight or accountability required of most public entities.

The Power Players Behind HOA Legislation

Three primary trade groups dominate Arizona’s HOA legislative landscape:

• CAI (Community Associations Institute) – A national organization representing management companies, attorneys, and service vendors.

• AACM (Arizona Association of Community Managers) – The local powerhouse representing management professionals statewide.

• HBACA (Home Builders Association of Central Arizona) – A key player ensuring that developers and builders maintain influence over HOA structures and statutes.

Each of these groups invests heavily in lobbying, public relations, and political contributions. They attend private events with legislators, sponsor “educational” sessions, and ensure their voices are the loudest at the Capitol.

Why Homeowners Have So Little Representation

Here’s a staggering fact: in the entire state of Arizona, there is only one law firm that exclusively represents homeowners in HOA disputes. Meanwhile, there are hundreds—if not thousands—of attorneys who represent HOAs, condominium associations, and builders.

That imbalance isn’t an accident—it’s a direct result of where the money flows.

When an industry can generate millions through assessments and dues, it can afford to hire lobbyists, fund campaigns, and shape the narrative at the state legislature. Meanwhile, the average homeowner has limited time, limited resources, and often, no idea what rights they actually have.

The Forgotten Pioneers Who Fought for You

Despite these odds, Arizona has been home to a few dedicated homeowner advocates who refused to be silenced. These pioneers—individual homeowners who faced injustice and fought back—have been instrumental in pushing for fairer laws, transparency, and accountability.

Their tireless work led to small but meaningful victories: improved notice requirements, limited due process rights, and more consistent board accountability. It’s on their shoulders that groups like the Arizona Homeowners Coalition were built—organizations committed to giving homeowners a united voice in a system that has long ignored them.

Why Now Matters More Than Ever

The next legislative session is around the corner. And once again, trade groups like CAI, AACM, and HBACA will be there—well-funded, well-organized, and ready to influence the outcome.

They’ll be in meetings, luncheons, and private sessions, ensuring laws continue to favor the industry over the individual homeowner.

But this time, you can make a difference.

Homeowners make up the largest voting bloc in Arizona. 3.5 million people funding an entire industry have the power to turn the tide—if they choose to speak up.