If that makes me a snob, so be it. I knew before I closed on my property what restrictions I would be facing. I agreed to the terms, and I'm satisfied.
I agree. I sometimes find our HOA a nuisance, but the rules are for everyone’s benefit, and we knew what they were when we bought the house.
I don’t know where the OP lives that he’s so upset. There are some obnoxious people in the neighborhood, and there’s some crime ... but the same was true in the 60’s. My subdivision has residents from more the 20 countries. (When the Brazilians cook out, it smells like carnivore heaven!) Everyone gets out and works on their lawns, and trades plants and appliances (”We got a new washer, you want the old one?).
Maybe I’ve just been lucky!