The trend now is to break up a single family lot and have 2 homes with an HOA.  There are more and more ways to organize these lots and associations.  Some better than others.  And some are fantastic!  It pays to work with someone who knows the ins and outs of Condos and HOAs, even if your looking for a single family home.  Increasing density in housing is critical to the economy.  Doing it in a way that is benificial to the buyer is key.  Working with someone who can navigate the new HOAs is vital!