I agree the HOAs are often completely terrible. There are, however, some benefits. For example, cities often require that HOAs for newly built subdivisions are

I agree the HOAs are often completely terrible. There are, however, some benefits. For example, cities often require that HOAs for newly built subdivisions are responsible for certain types of utility and sidewalk maintenance because maze-like/fractal-like subdivisions mean maintenance of these things are incredibly expensive and cost more to maintain than what the city receives from that subdivision in terms of taxes.