In the simplest understanding they are the rules of the neighborhood, usually set in place by the developer they set the rules for what can and can't go into the neighborhood. The main goal of CC&Rs are to protect, preserve, and enhance the property values in the neighborhood.
Imagine if in a neighborhood of 3000+ sq.ft. homes someone came and built a 1000 sq ft house with a giant garage in the back or if in someone came and placed a mobile home on a lot in a neighborhood of newer homes or if someone built a mansion in a neighborhood of smaller family homes or if someone built their house right up next to your adjoining property line. Such things would effect the home values and the value of the neighborhood and that is what CC&Rs prevent.
Often restrictions on them are on the required square footage of the home, the space required between the edge of the lot and the house, sometimes you see restrictions on what percentage of the exterior needs to be brick or stone or stucco. CC&Rs vary depending on the development, but all work to create a unified neighborhood great for years to come.
With CC&Rs all the more common than in our grandparents time it's important to have a builder who understands them and how to work with them to build you the home you want on the lot you want, so that you don;t have to worry about the CC&Rs. At Echelon we speak CC&Rs fluently and can help you navigate them in finding that perfect lot for your dream home. If you have any further questions about CC&Rs or building a home call us or leave a comment below.
