Why are HOAs so BAD,GREEDY, and have dumb rules?

HOA in Orlando Florida is a monstrosity. Two payments per month, late and reminder fees, don't answer questions, $500 for leasing out my unit. I had enough and stopped all payments to them and stopped paying the mortgage after I stripped out the condo of all appliances, lights, and even took out the carpet. I am done with the monster of an HOA. Funny how the HOA is staffed by outsiders, not condo members.