They are either extremely old and rundown or they are old fashioned but well maintained.

@Xavier Jefferson, there have been multiple studies and surveys done on this topic over the last couple of years. 

Even if it's used as a tool just to buy and sell properties on your own, i'm sure you will make back the money it costs to maintain your license, office, MLS etc.

I typically plan to appeal for at least two years in an attempt to keep it "fair'.You should also expect the taxes to go up every year as Rockford has a history showing the inability to maintain a budget.

I do know the area pretty well and have been studying REI for about 9 months now and am currently looking for my first buy and hold.

ChrisThe advice I would give you, study the RE markets in the areas you want to flip.

I stopped studying rei because I thought you needed a lot of capital to start and it was slow churning process like my brother.

I study it, I think I kind of understand it, and I believe I have the ability to spot an opportunity from a mile or 10 away.  

From what I understand, they basically "Maintain" the entryway to the neighborhood, make sure nobody paints their house purple, etc.However, do these HOA's have authority to place regulations on renting to tenants?

My lease read "The following items of personal property are included in the premises without warranty and the landlord will not maintain, repair or replace them: washer/dryer".That being said, a tenant cannot be required to waive their rights to things that affect the legal habitability of the home, even if it's in the lease.