Covenants are usually called Restrictive Covenants because they restrict the use of real property. Often required as part of the subdivision process by the approving authority, these are charges registered against the title, and binding upon all subsequent owners. These covenants govern how a property may be used.

They are normally put in place by the original developer, and are different for every area of homes.

When you bought your home, did you know that Falcon View had a legally binding covenants? In case you didn't you can read them here.

Falcon View Covenants (1MB)

Restrictive covenants are a good thing for the following reasons:

• They give a development a more standard appearance and control some of the activities that take place within its boundaries.
   
• They help the development's market value, because--when enforced--restrictions prevent homeowners from allowing the appearance of their property to slide.

Even though restrictions are usually a plus, homebuyers should always plan to study covenants before making an offer on a home, to make sure they can live with the specific rules and regulations of record. Here are some tips to help you wade through the restrictions.