Lydia Estates Homeowners Assoc., Inc.

Architectural Reviews Board (Declaration; Articles VII & VIII):

Feb 23, 2006

The purpose of Architectural Review Process is largely to maintain the architectural harmony & character of our community. Architectural review is the responsibility of the Board. The ARC (committee) serves as a first line of review for the Board and helps ensure architectural compatibility, maintain the character of the community and, therefore, protects property values. When homeowners in Lydia Estates want to make modifications to their homes, they must make sure that it is within code (national/state/city) and does not violate association rules. Regardless of any rulings or approvals by a public authority (e.g., St. Johns River Water Management District, the city or state), it must be approved by the Association?’s Board.
If you anticipate making any horizontal or vertical improvements (physical, style or color) to your property, its suggested that you: (1) first read the Declaration and rules; (2) prepare your proposal specifying style, materials (including color), height, location, etc. as applicable; and (3) present these in writing to the ARC. Do not commit to any contract or start work unless you receive Board approval and gain any regulatory approvals. In this way, homeowners can avoid the expense involved in a possible requirement to remove the modification or bring it into compliance. Most improvements that are of concern are visible from the exterior (e.g., new of changed sheds, walk/driveways, enclosures, large landscaping (trees or ornamental pieces), installation of recreation equipment. Others apply to the interior (e.g., garages cannot be converted to other uses).
Requests should be submitted 30 days in advance and they must be in writing and provide certain information and/or drawings and/or samples, so that any research, request for additional information and presentation at the next board meeting can take place. The Board reviews each request, amongst other things; for consistency, and to assess the broad impact of any proposed change over time versus instant gratification of a single resident. The Board must strive to avoid changes that may later have a negative bearing on the community
PostScript: People may often come through a community and comment as to how well kept or pleasing the community may look. They may not stop to analyze why they have this impression. The fact is there is architectural harmony & a defined character present. It?’s not only what one sees, but also what they do not see, that makes a community so attractive:
1) NO mish-mash of different types of outbuildings and miscellaneous structures.
2) NO cars sitting in streets, old vehicles in disrepair sitting around.
3) NO inconsistent colors that go against the existing harmony of colors (i.e.., pastel versus dark/harsh colors).
4) NO unkempt lawns, other landscaping and home exteriors. Instead, the community has a groomed look.
5) NO children playing in the streets and/or basketball backboards throughout the community (Note: Lydia Estates has not allowed backboards).
Plain & simple ?– we must maintain the sanctity of the covenant, restrictions and rules; and support the Architectural Review Process. This is why people choose deeded communities and are willing to pay to maintain the existing environment (character). Therefore they expect the board and their neighbors to take all reasonable actions necessary to support what they contractually agreed to when they moved here.