Simple answer: Over the decades, state and local laws change, new technologies are introduced, and what’s fashionable does not remain so. That being said, revisions are necessary to maintain the spirit and purpose of the HOA .

A generic description of the “Why’s and How’s” of Deed Restriction Revisions is presented below (unashamedly gathered from the internet). While this is a generic description, many apply to Sterlingwood.

How’s and Why’s (general)

The purpose of an HOA is to protect and increase property values, ensure a pleasant, good quality of life for its residents. manage and maintain community assets, enforce standards for property upkeep and appearance, and administer shared amenities.

HOA deed restrictions are changed to adapt to evolving community needs, update outdated rules, and comply with new laws. Changing them can address issues like outdated architectural guidelines, new community demographics, or the need for modern rules, ultimately helping to maintain community trust and prevent restrictions from becoming unenforceable or irrelevant over time. 

Reasons to change deed restrictions

• Community evolution: As neighborhoods change, restrictions that were once suitable may no longer fit the community's needs or values.

• Outdated rules: To correct old rules that are difficult to enforce, or that no longer serve their original purpose.

• Legal compliance: To update rules to align with new state or local laws, which may be mandatory.

• Neighborly disputes: Inconsistent enforcement or perception of unreasonable rules can lead to disputes, making updates necessary to clarify and improve fairness.

• Modernization: To allow for new improvements or types of properties that were not anticipated when the original restrictions were created, such as those related to energy efficiency or accessibility.

• Improved governance: Making changes can lead to stronger governance, clearer rules, and better community transparency.

  Sterlingwood Specific Concerns

• Forty-year first term ends 6/1/2026. If there is no action, the current deed restrictions will renew for another ten years.

• Current deed restrictions do not include a multitude of written policies or power to add them; as such they do not fully comply with Texas Law.

• The SHOA has no power to change maintenance fee cap or to cover unplanned expenses.

• Protection of SHOA Officer's/Directors’ personal liability when acting in good faith.

• Clarification of broken violation enforcement procedures.

Suggested procedures to change deed restrictions

• Propose the amendment: The HOA board drafts a proposed amendment (in progress).

• Consult an attorney: Consult a lawyer to ensure the proposed changes comply with all relevant laws (in progress).

• Notify homeowners: Formally notify all residents about the proposed changes and the reasons for them.

• Distribute proposed revision to all homeowners and ask for feedback. If needed, modify documents based on feedback.

• Town Hall Meeting late January or February, 2026. Discussions/concerns. If needed, special meetings scheduled.

• Vote: Homeowners vote on the amendment no later than the May quarterly meeting.

• File the amendment: Once approved, the amendment is filed with the county recorder to become official.