Definitions

Understanding these key terms will help you get the most out of this guide.

CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions)

The Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions is the recorded document that establishes the standards every homesite in the community must follow. Filed with the county before any home is sold, the CC&Rs encumber every lot, and each home is sold with the understanding that the buyer agrees to all of them. They provide both protections and limitations, so it is important to read them carefully.

Declarant

The developer of the community, called the "Declarant" because it "declares" the CC&Rs. The Declarant establishes the association, holds all the votes initially (one per lot), and gradually turns over control to homeowners as homes are sold.

Homeowners Association (HOA)

The organization that directs the business of the community — electing a Board of Directors, enforcing covenants, engaging a management company, organizing activities, and setting dues and fees. Every homeowner is a member.

Metro District

A metropolitan district is a local government entity established under Colorado law to fund and maintain a community's public infrastructure — roads, water and sewer lines, drainage, sidewalks, parks, trails, and open space — through a separate property tax. It is run by an elected board and operates under a service plan approved by the county or municipality.

Management Company

The professional firm contracted by the Board of Directors to handle the association's day-to-day operations, including membership records, assessment collection, financials, covenant inspections, and correspondence. The community manager is the firm's representative who carries out these duties.

Design Review

The process by which exterior changes and additions to a home are reviewed and approved to keep the community's architectural design and quality consistent with the original. Requests are submitted to the Design Review Committee using a Design Request form.

Community Turnover

The gradual, multi-step process by which control of common areas and administrative duties transitions from Classic Homes to the association as the community is completed. Each completed area is inspected, corrected as needed, and then formally accepted.