Episode 27: Your HOA Can’t Do That Behind Closed Doors 🏠🚪
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Your HOA Can’t Do That Behind Closed Doors 🏠🚪
An HOA board may need to discuss certain confidential matters privately. But can it also take formal action and make major decisions while homeowners are locked out of the room?
In this episode of Houses & Spouses, Ryan breaks down an April 2026 Arizona Court of Appeals decision involving the Sunland Springs Village Homeowners Association.
The case involved closed board meetings where significant actions were taken, including approving a roughly $917,000 budget item, granting spending authority to a community manager, addressing age-restriction waivers and authorizing foreclosures against two homeowners.
The court’s decision reinforces an important distinction: certain discussions may legally happen in private, but formal votes and board action generally need to occur during an open meeting. HOA agendas must also provide homeowners with enough meaningful information to understand what will be discussed or decided—not merely cite a statute or use vague language such as “legal matters.”
Ryan covers:
• Which HOA discussions may remain private
• Why final votes generally need to happen in public
• What homeowners should expect from meeting notices and agendas
• Recent Arizona laws limiting HOA authority
• Three practical steps homeowners can take when something doesn’t add up
Special thanks to Patrick MacQueen with Medalist Legal for bringing this court decision to Ryan’s attention.
This episode provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Homeowners dealing with a specific HOA dispute should speak with a qualified Arizona attorney.
Thinking about buying or selling?
Ryan and the Gannon Hamilton Real Estate Team help buyers and sellers throughout the Phoenix Valley and Greater Tucson. If you’re moving somewhere else, the GHRE Network can connect you with a trusted real estate professional virtually anywhere in the country.
Visit GannonHamilton.com to get started—and don’t forget to share this episode with someone who lives in an HOA. In Arizona, that probably won’t be difficult.
About The Houses & Spouses Podcast
The Houses & Spouses is hosted by Ryan Hamilton and explores real estate, weddings, relationships, family, and community through practical advice and personal stories.
Ryan Hamilton serves Arizona families as a trusted real estate professional, wedding officiant, podcast host, and community advocate.
Whether you're looking to buy a home, sell a home, celebrate a wedding, or simply connect with someone who values meaningful relationships and personal growth, Ryan is here to help.
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