Frequently Asked Questions

Braeswood Place HOA Reauthorization & Deed Update FAQ

How will this help our community?

The goal is to update the documents and deed language, remove offensive language, and alleviate some of the burden placed on homeowners when the city changes ordinances. 

Is there really offensive and racially insensitive language in the deeds?

Yes, many of the deed documents were written in the 1950s and contain vocabulary and rules that are obsolete or offensive. While not legally enforced, the language needs to be updated to reflect our welcoming community as it is today.

Why now?

Part of this effort was prompted by the situation individual residents faced after home elevations were raised and the deed restrictions didn’t allow for stairs to access the new elevation. Residents should not have to spend substantial time and personal monies to apply for variances and acquire signatures. 

Why does a reauthorization need to be done first in some neighborhoods? 

To move forward with modernizing our deed restrictions, some subdivisions that have not been updated over the years need their neighborhood subdivision associations reauthorized first. This fall, we are launching the initial phase of the reauthorization process in Ayrshire Sections 3 and 10. 

Why are there mandatory dues?

Without City of Houston zoning requirements, the responsibility of protecting the deed requirements of our neighborhood rests with the Braeswood Place Homeowners Association. State law requires homeowner membership dues as a means to confirm the legal standing of the HOA to enforce neighborhood protections and to determine voting status setting policy and procedures of the association.

How are the dues monies spent?  

Dues will be $5 a month ($60/year) to help pay for our common space landscaping maintenance, Sentinel newsletter, office, and legal representation. Payment of dues also provides voting rights on BPHA policies and procedures.

Will all of the homes be required to look the same? Will homeowners have to apply for approval of paint colors in the new deed amendments?

No. The focus is clarifying and updating the current deed language to reflect 2021, not adding new requirements.

Is the homeowner’s association going to become like others and assess fees and nitpick everyone?

No. The goal is to clarify and update the overall language to reflect 2021. We understand the hard work our residents put in to maintain their homes and our community. This effort is about preserving the charm and family-friendly atmosphere in Braeswood Place.

Where can we read the petitions and the deed amendments?

Visit www.BraeswoodPlaceDeedUpdate.org.

Is the homeowner association going to seek evictions from those behind on dues?

No. The association will not seek eviction and a provision will be written into the deed amendment updates to outline this rule. The Braeswood Place Homeowners Association is chartered to govern and explain the structure provided in the Deed restrictions.    

What information is required to sign the documents?

Each homeowner must sign and date the Deed Update or HOA reauthorization document.

How many signatures are needed to approve the petition?

Per Texas Property Code Sec. 204.006, each petition will need to be approved by the owners of at least 60% of the real property in each subdivision.

Who will be collecting the signatures?

A team of deed officials will be in the neighborhood. Deed officials will be identifiable by their shirts and with photo ID badges worn.

How do I sign the documents?

A team will be going door to door in your neighborhood. You may also arrange to have a deed official come to your home at your convenience by texting or leaving a message at (346) 306-1665.

What health and safety precautions are in place?

We are taking the utmost care to ensure we do this safely. Deed officials will be taking precautions to protect the health of our community, including wearing masks when required, distancing, and other recommended public safety measures.  

Where can I find more information? What if I have more questions?

Visit BraeswoodPlaceDeedUpdate.org for more information and to contact us with any additional questions or concerns.