Arizona man loses $475K home in HOA foreclosure over $977 in dues

An Arizona man lost his $475,000 Mesa home in an HOA foreclosure over unpaid dues totaling $977. Toby Newton, 53, fell behind after losing his job and facing health issues. Newton purchased the four-bedroom home in 2022 but missed quarterly payments of $170 after losing his sales job and being diagnosed with diabetes. His partner also battles breast cancer. He offered payment plans, which were denied, and the debt grew to nearly $10,000 with attorney fees. The home sold at a November 2025 public auction for $8,172, though Newton remains in the residence. He said he learned of the auction two days prior and has started an online fundraiser to buy back the home. HOA foreclosures have risen nearly 40% nationwide.