Ok we are new to owning a house and having to pay HOA dues...does anyone know exactly what all those dues are paying for? Please let me know if you do! 

to care for the landscaping at the entrance and the park.  For upkeep on the park, pond, fountain.  For the electric for lights and fountain, for water for watering the landscaping.  For the fees to the Mgmt company to ensure compliance with the By Laws, for insurance against lawsuit for the common areas and for the board of directors. 

I am sure there is more, but that is the standard fare.....