How to Locate Distressed/Vacant Properties in and HOA

[Evan Bell]

So I've been driving for dollars lately in areas that have no HOA attached to them. These areas are about 30 miles from my primary residence and I am wanting to find stuff that is closer to home if possible. The only problem with that is that all the communities around where I live are newer and are all part of HOA's.

My question is how do I find the distressed/vacant properties when they are tied to an HOA? Areas with no HOA make it easier to discern which houses are most likely vacant, does this ring true in HOA neighborhoods as well?

So far, the little bit of driving for dollars I've done around my home area, I haven't noticed any "distressed" looking properties, and I am wondering if I may be missing some potential investments. 

If the home is vacant, is there anyone who is then responsible for maintaining HOA standards, or should it fall into disrepair just like non-HOA properties?