Understanding POA, HOA, and Community Fees in Hilton Head, Bluffton & Daufuskie Island
When exploring homes for sale in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, or Daufuskie Island, it’s essential to understand the different fees that come with owning property in a private community. Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, Property Owners Association (POA) fees, and general community fees can vary widely depending on the neighborhood, property type, and included amenities.
These fees may cover everything from landscaping and security to amenities like golf courses, pools, tennis courts, and clubhouse access. Whether you’re considering a luxury oceanfront estate, a golf course villa, or a low-maintenance condo, being aware of these ongoing costs will help you make a smarter, more informed investment.
Community fees by area.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND HOA FEES | POA FEES
| COMMUNITY | HOA FEE | ADDITIONAL FEES |
| Allenwood – Homes | $1,185 | Capital contribution: $100 Homes or $150 Lots |
| Allenwood – Townhomes | $1,584 | |
| Ashton Cove | $1,416 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price |
| Carolina Isles | $1,300 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price or $1,000 |
| Crosswinds – Homes | $2,420 | Transfer Fee: 1.5 times the annual dues |
| Crosswinds – Lots | $1,800 | |
| Folly Field (optional) | $125 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price |
| Forest Beach (optional) | $100 | None |
| Hilton Head Plantation – Homes | $1,328 | Transfer fee: 1/4 of 1% of sale price (capped at $10,921) |
| Hilton Head Plantation – Lots | $797 | Transfer fee: 1/4 of 1% of sale price (capped at $10,921) |
| Indigo Run – Homes | Transfer fee: $4,832 + $250 admin fee | |
| -Indigo Run- Golden Bear | $2,416 | |
| -Indigo Run- The Golf Club | $2,616 | |
| -Indigo Run- Broad Pointe | $3810 | |
| Indigo Run – Lots | Transfer fee: $4,106 + $250 admin fee | |
| -Indigo Run- Golden Bear | $2,053 | |
| -Indigo Run- The Golf Club | $2,453 | |
| -Indigo Run- Broad Pointe | $3,447 | |
| -Indigo Run- River Club | $3,544 | |
| Jarvis Creek | $1,400 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price |
| Leamington – Homes | $3,465 | Enhancement Fee: .5% (cap $10,600) |
| Leamington – Villas | $990 | |
| Leamington – Lots | $3,465 | |
| Long Cove – Homes | $19,515 | Initiation fee: $50,000 |
| Long Cove – Lots | $19,515 | Initiation fee: $50,000 |
| Old House Creek | $1,100 | |
| Paddocks on Jarvis Creek – Homes | $1,725 | Transfer Fee: .5% of sale price |
| Paddocks on Jarvis Creek – Lots | $2,150 | Transfer Fee: ½ of 1% |
| Palmetto Dunes | $1,900 | Transfer fee: .5% of sales price | Storm reserve: $150 |
| Palmetto Hall – Homes | $2,080 | Initiation fee: $3,500 | $3,000 capital reserve + 125 | + social or golf membership |
| Palmetto Hall – Lots | $1,485 | Initiation fee: $3,500 | $3,000 capital reserve + 125 | + social or golf membership |
| Point Comfort | $500 | Transfer Fee: .5% of sale price |
| Port Royal – Homes | $2,184 | Transfer Fee: .5% of sale price |
| Port Royal – Lots | $1,700 | Transfer Fee: .5% of sale price |
| Sea Pines | $2,005 | |
| Shelter Cove | $1,354 | Transfer fee: .5% of sales price + $200 processing fee |
| Shipyard | $1,165 | Enhancement fee: .5% of sales price + $200 processing fee |
| Spanish Pointe | $3,500 | |
| Spanish Wells – Homes | $2,360 | |
| Spanish Wells – Lots | $1,540 | |
| Squiresgate | $350 | |
| Timbercrest | $966 | |
| Victoria Square | $1,563 | Transfer Fee: 1x Quarterly Dues |
| Wexford – Homes | $22,004 | Initiation fee: $70,000 | $1,500 Food & beverage min. |
| Wexford – Lots | $22,004 | Initiation fee: $35,000 | $1,500 Food & beverage min. |
| Windmill Harbour – Homes | $3,152 | |
| Windmill Harbour – Lots | $1,528 | |
| Windmill Harbour – Boat Slips | $764 |
Additional fees may apply in certain neighborhoods. Hilton Head HOA Fees | Hilton Head POA Fees are subject to change without notice.
BLUFFTON HOA FEES | POA FEES
| COMMUNITY | HOA FEE | ADDITIONAL FEES |
| Alston Park | $1,342 | Transfer Fee: 1x quarterly dues |
| Bartons Run | $1,600 | Transfer Fee: 1%, $1,300 assessment, $300 Lawn Care |
| Baynard Park | $1,780 | Transfer Fee: 25% of sales price POA, .25% BP Rec. Assoc. |
| Belfair – Homes | $20,588 | Initiation fee: $70,000 |
| Belfair – Lots | $20,585 | Initiation fee: $70,000 + $500 mowing fee |
| Berkeley Hall | $25,418 | Initiation fee: $90,000 | $6,935 National Golf Membership |
| Bluffton Park – Homes | $695 | |
| Bluffton Park – Townhomes | $1,351 | |
| Brighton Oaks | $788 | |
| Callawassie Island | $16,817 | Initiation fee: $50,000 + $250 admin fee |
| Colleton River | $27,125 | Initiation fee: $90,000 |
| Crescent | $2,295 | Transfer Fee: .5%, One time fee $375 |
| Eagles Pointe | $1,460 | $100 New owner fee |
| Edgefield | $600 | Transfer Fee: .25% |
| Fern Lakes | $1,204 | Road assessment $200/year through 2023 |
| Four Seasons at Carolina Oaks | $2,400 | $1,000 Cap. + $400, Resales- .33% Transfer Fee |
| Gascoigne Bluff | $2,000 | |
| Hampton Hall | $5,597 | Social membership: $23,000 + $1,400 capital fund fee |
| Hampton Lake | $4,602 | Community enhancement fee: .05% of sales price + $150 admin fee. New construction fee: $875. Additional fees may apply. |
| Heritage Lakes | $603 | Transfer Fee: .25% |
| Heyward Point | $2,650 | Transfer Fee: $2,200 |
| Hidden Lakes | $904 | Transfer Fee: .5% of Sale Price |
| Hilton Head Lakes | $2,592 | $207 Admin Fee. Transfer Fee: .25% |
| Island West | $1,510 | Transfer Fee: .25%. Special Assessment: $1,241 |
| Lake Linden | $640 | Transfer Fee: 1x Quarter Assessment |
| Lakes at New Riverside | $1,440 | $1,000 Capital Contribution, Resales Transfer fee: 1/4 of 1% |
| Latitude at MARGARITAVILLE – Single Family | $3,267 | Transfer fee: 1/6 of annual HOA fee + $100 admin fee |
| Latitude at MARGARITAVILLE – Village Home | $3,835 | Transfer fee: 1/6 of annual HOA fee + $100 admin fee |
| Latitude at MARGARITAVILLE – Cottage | $3,537 | Transfer fee: 1/6 of annual HOA fee + $100 admin fee |
| Lawton Station | $1,004 | 1x Qtr. POA Fee + Mgmt. fee $150 |
| Malind Bluff | $1,782 | |
| May River Preserve | $2,200 | Transfer fee .5% of sale, builder/1st own-$500 |
| Meadows at New Riverside | $566 | |
| Mill Creek at Cypress Ridge – Homes | $1,392 | Transfer Fee: 1x POA fee +$50 |
| Mill Creek at Cypress Ridge – Townhomes | $2,520 | Transfer Fee: 1x POA fee +$51 |
| Moss Creek – Homes | $7,512 | Membership fee: $35,000 + optional activity fee |
| Moss Creek – Lots | $6,228 | Membership fee: $35,000 + optional activity fee |
| Oldfield – Lots | $10,744 | Club initiation fee: $18,000, OCA initiation fee $10,000 | Transfer fee: 1% of sales price (cap. $5,000) |
| Palmetto Bluff – Homes & Lots | $5,315 | $50,000 + Homes- .75% of sales price | Homesites- 1% transfer of sales price & .75% for homes. Optional Club fee: $8,745 |
| Palmetto Point Townes – Homes | $1,038 | Transfer Fee: $300 |
| Palmetto Point Townes – Townhomes | $3,324 | Transfer Fee: $301 |
| Parkside at Baynard Park | $1,440 | Transfer Fee: .5% of sale price |
| Pine Forest Village | $786 | |
| Pine Ridge | $540 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price |
| Pinecrest | $900 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price |
| Riverbend | $2,469 | Initiation fee: .33% of sales price + $300 admin fee | Enhancement fee (resale): $2,500. New construction fee $5,000. |
| Rivers End | 0 | |
| Riverton Pointe | $2,136 | Initiation Fee: $4,000, Social membership $210/mo., Transfer Fee: $900 |
| Rose Dhu Creek | $1,850 | Transfer Fee: $3,500 |
| Rose Hill – Homes | $2,800 | Transfer fee: $4,200 + enhancement fee: $1,575 + $300 admin fee |
| Rose Hill – Lots | $1,864 | Transfer fee: $4,200 + enhancement fee: $1,575 + $300 admin fee |
| Sandy Pointe | $800 | |
| Sawmill Forest | $772 | |
| Seagrass Station | $940 | 2x Monthly POA fee; $25 Admin Fee |
| Shell Hall | $1,756 | $2,500 Transfer fee |
| Southern Oaks at New Riverside – Homes | $820 | 1x quarterly POA |
| Southern Oaks at New Riverside – Townhomes | $1,853 | 1x quarterly POA |
| Spring Island | Initiation fee: $125,000 + Homes 1% trust fee + $500 cap. fee | Homesites 1.5% + $500 cap. fee | Club dues: $20,400/ year | Homes 1% trust fee on sale | |
| Spring Island – Homes | $7,355 | Initiation fee: $125,000 + Homes 1% trust fee + $500 cap. fee | Homesites 1.5% + $500 cap. fee | Club dues: $20,400/ year | Homes 1% trust fee on sale |
| Stock Farm | $630 | |
| Sun City | $2,469 | Initiation fee: .33% of sales price + $300 admin fee | Enhancement fee (resale): $2,500 |
| The Farm at Buckwalter | $989 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price |
| The Haven at New Riverside | $2,880 | New Membership Fee: .33% of price. Comm. enhancement: $1,200, Admin fee: $400 |
| The Heritage at New Riverside | $1,020 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price. $750 Capital contribution |
| The Landings at New Riverside | $985 | Transfer Fee: .5% + $125.00. Disclosure fee: $250.00 |
| The Retreat at Grande Oaks | $1,000 | Capital Contribution: $500 |
| The Walk at Bluffton Square | $996 | Cap Contribution $166, Admin Fee $100 |
| Traditions at Old Carolina | $1,165 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price |
| University Park | $1,500 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sale price |
| University Place – Homes | $500 | |
| University Place – Townhomes | $1,681 | |
| Victoria Bluff | $800 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price |
| Village at Olde Town | $1,000 | Transfer Fee: $250 |
| Wellstone at Bluffton | $1,548 | Transfer Fee: $500 |
| Westbury Park | $1,764 | Transfer Fee: .25% of sales price, Admin Fee $150 |
| Woodbridge | $638 |
Additional fees may apply in certain neighborhoods. POA Fees | HOA Fees are subject to change without notice.
DAUFUSKIE ISLAND HOA FEES | POA FEES
| COMMUNITY | HOA FEE | ADDITIONAL FEES |
| Cedar Cove | $2,000 | |
| Bloody Point – Homes | $1,380 | |
| Bloody Point – Lots | $1,150 | |
| Haig Point | $20,745 + Membership | Transfer Fee: 1% of sale price | Initiation fee: $65,000 |
| Melrose – Homes | $1,100 | |
| Melrose – Lots | $900 | |
| Oak Ridge | $800 |
Additional fees may apply in certain neighborhoods. HOA Fees | POA Fees are subject to change without notice.
Understanding HOA Fees, POA Fees, and Community Costs in Hilton Head Island, Daufuskie Island & Bluffton, SC
If you’re searching for homes for sale in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, or Daufuskie Island, understanding the various fees associated with private communities is essential. Whether you’re buying a luxury home, a waterfront property, or a golf course villa, you’ll likely encounter HOA (Homeowners Association) fees, POA (Property Owners Association) fees, and community fees that help maintain the amenities and services that make Lowcountry living so appealing.
What Are HOA and POA Fees?
HOA and POA fees fund the community’s annual operating budget, which covers services such as landscaping, security, amenities, and infrastructure maintenance. These fees vary depending on whether the property is improved (with a home built on it) or unimproved (a vacant lot).
Capital Improvement Fees, Enhancement Fees & Special Assessments
These additional fees are used to fund large-scale projects like building new clubhouses, roadwork, or renovating existing facilities:
- Capital Improvement Fees are usually one-time charges for new buyers.
- Enhancement Fees and Special Assessments are temporary and authorized by the board to finance specific upgrades.
Initiation, Processing & Administrative Fees
Most communities charge an initiation fee to cover administrative costs during the property transfer process. These fees ensure a smooth handoff between buyer and seller and may include document preparation, orientation, or processing expenses.
Real Estate Transfer Fees
A transfer fee—also known as a resale fee, reconveyance fee, or capital recovery fee—may be imposed during closing. These fees are typically paid by the seller and are sometimes attached to the property as a deed covenant, affecting future owners as well.
Membership Fees for Golf, Tennis & Club Amenities
Some gated and luxury communities in Hilton Head, Daufuskie and Bluffton offer optional or mandatory memberships to private golf clubs, tennis centers, fitness facilities, or social clubs. These membership fees vary by community and often provide access to exclusive amenities.
Fee Disclosure Disclaimer
Please note: all POA and HOA fees are subject to change and may vary from one community to another. For the most accurate, up-to-date information, contact the individual association or your Hilton Head or Bluffton real estate agent directly.
Hilton Head | Bluffton FAQs.
HOA vs POA
HOA (Homeowners Association) fees and POA (Property Owners Association) fees are both charges levied by community organizations for the maintenance and management of common areas and amenities, but they serve different types of communities.
1. HOA Fees:
– HOA fees are typically associated with residential developments, such as planned communities, condominiums, or townhouses.
– These fees are mandatory for homeowners within the community and are used to maintain common areas like parks, swimming pools, roads, and landscaping.
– HOAs also enforce community rules and regulations, often including architectural guidelines, noise restrictions, and maintenance standards.
– The amount of HOA fees can vary widely depending on the amenities and services provided, as well as the size and location of the community.
2. POA Fees:
– POA fees are similar to HOA fees but are typically associated with rural or suburban properties, such as those found in gated communities or large land developments.
– They serve a similar purpose to HOA fees, covering the costs of maintaining shared amenities and common areas.
– However, POAs may have a broader scope of responsibility, which can include things like road maintenance, security services, and even utilities in some cases.
– POA fees are also mandatory for property owners within the designated area.
In summary, while both HOA and POA fees serve similar purposes in terms of maintaining community standards and amenities, they are associated with different types of residential developments. HOA fees are more common in planned communities and urban areas, while POA fees are often found in rural or suburban settings with larger properties or gated communities.
What is a regime fee in Hilton Head?
Regime fees are condominium association costs typically charged on a monthly basis to the owners of condos that cover budgeted items. Although the terms “HOA” and “condo association fees” are more widely used, “regime fee” is a common term in southern states, and more specifically here in South Carolina.
POA FEES | HOA FEES
HOA Fees, POA Fees & Community Fees in Hilton Head, Bluffton & Daufuskie Island: What Homeowners Need to Know
When buying a home in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, or Daufuskie Island, understanding HOA fees, POA fees, and community fees is essential. These fees directly impact your cost of living and play a vital role in the long-term value and upkeep of your property.
💡 What is an HOA Fee?
An HOA (Homeowners Association) fee is a recurring cost paid by homeowners within a residential community. This fee funds the maintenance of common areas such as:
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Landscaping
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Swimming pools
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Clubhouses
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Security services
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Recreational facilities
HOAs are typically found in more suburban or urban developments where homes are clustered within a neighborhood or gated community.
🏘️ What is a POA Fee?
POA (Property Owners Association) fees function similarly but often apply to larger or more rural areas. POAs may include both residential and undeveloped properties (improved and unimproved lots). These fees commonly support:
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Road maintenance
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Drainage and infrastructure
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Shared amenities across broader master-planned communities
POAs are common in luxury Lowcountry communities like Palmetto Bluff and Colleton River Club.
🌐 What Are Community Fees?
Community fees are typically assessed by municipalities or broader associations to cover public services such as:
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Trash collection
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Street lighting
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Fire and police protection
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Road repairs
These may apply to all residents in a geographic area, not just those in a managed HOA or POA.
⚙️ Additional Fees to Know About When Buying in Bluffton, Hilton Head or Daufuskie
🔨 Capital Improvement & Special Assessment Fees
These are one-time or short-term fees charged to fund large-scale improvements such as:
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Clubhouse renovations
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New amenity construction
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Road resurfacing
Capital improvement fees are often assessed during the property transfer, while special assessments may be levied during emergencies or budget shortfalls.
📝 Initiation, Transfer & Processing Fees
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Initiation Fees cover administrative onboarding for new homeowners.
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Transfer Fees (sometimes called capital recovery or reconveyance fees) are paid at closing—typically by the seller—and may be passed on to future buyers as deed covenants.
🏌️ Optional & Mandatory Membership Fees
Many communities, especially in Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, offer optional or mandatory club memberships for:
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Golf courses
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Tennis clubs
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Fitness centers
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Yacht clubs and marinas
These may be one-time purchases or recurring dues.
📌 Budgeting for HOA & POA Fees: What Buyers Should Know
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Fee amounts vary greatly by community, location, and amenity level.
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Luxury communities with golf, gated entry, and waterfront access typically have higher fees.
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Always request a fee schedule from your real estate agent or the HOA/POA board before closing.
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Use a mortgage calculator that factors in monthly dues to understand the true cost of homeownership.
🏠 Why HOA & POA Fees Matter for Homeowners
Well-managed associations help preserve home values and ensure your neighborhood remains attractive, safe, and functional. These fees may also cover:
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Insurance for shared structures
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Legal fees
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Reserve funds for future maintenance
✅ Final Takeaway: Know Before You Buy
Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Sea Pines, Sun City Hilton Head, Palmetto Bluff, or Daufuskie Island, understanding the HOA, POA, and community fees upfront helps avoid surprises and allows for smarter financial planning.
What is the average HOA fee in South Carolina?
HOA fees tend to vary drastically, depending on the property or community. The fees range anywhere between $100 and $1,000 per month. The average, though, tends to be between $200 and $300 per month. The general rule that applies is that the more services and amenities, the higher the fees.
What are the HOA fees in Sea Pines?
As of January 1, 2022 Sea Pines HOA fees are:
Improved: $2,005 / year
Additional fees may apply in certain neighborhoods.
How much does it cost to live in Hilton Head Plantation?
Nearly 4,000 acres of fantastic homes, recreational opportunities and amenities, and ample opportunity to find a place to call home is why Hilton Head Plantation may be the best place for you and your family.
One-time transfer fee: 1/4 of 1% of sale price (capped at $10,921)
Improved: $1,328/ year
Unimproved: $797/ year
What are the HOA fees in Sun City Hilton Head?
Sun City Hilton Head HOA fees are $230 per month and include lawn care, security, and common amenity maintenance.
One-time initiation/transfer fee: 1/3 of 1% of sales price + $1,250 membership fee + $200 admin fee
Improved: $2,268 / year or $567 / quarter + annual neighborhood assessment
Unimproved: $2,100 / year + annual neighborhood assessment
HOA Fees | POA Fees
