If I live in a neighborhood, I want an HOA. I don't want broken down cars in driveways or yards, pink flamingos, etc.
With that said, there is too much overreach. When I put up a fence last year, I have to get it approved by the HOA. No Problem. They need to regulate the design of fences according to guidelines. I had heartburn when they told me I had to get sign off from my neighbors. I told them I'd do it, but if any of them didn't sign off on it I'd be bringing a lawsuit against them and the HOA. I should have approved it the month before when I was on the HOA.
We had a guy paint his house a sick looking bright blue which was only the dormers and back since houses are 3 sided brick. It clashed with the whole neighborhood. He didn't get the color change approved and the HOA made him get it repainted. I'm all for that. When you buy in an HOA neighborhood, you agree to abide by the rules.
When I was on the HOA, we had a guy always park his pickup in the street as it was a third vechicle. They hounded him about parking it in his driveway or they'd fine him. I warned the other members that the streets are public and they have no power to fine anyone parking in the street. They can only encourage him to park in his driveway.
We're looking for 5 to 10 acres in GA/NC mountains now to build our retirement home. I won't have to worry about any HOA drama.