On schools, right now we’re just not that concerned because we don’t have kids. When the time comes, we might re-evaluate and move to another neighborhood. Or do the private school thing.
On HOAs, I also just can’t stand them. I come from a family that does not like neighborly intrusions on our business. And I can’t stand the idea of making a monthly payment for the rest of my life, without building any equity, and with little control over the amount of the payment.