HOAs Can Be Good or They Can Be Not So Good, Check Before You Buy
If you choose to live in a condo or an HOA neighborhood, you need to know the rules before you buy. Most HOA rules make sense and are in place to protect the values and looks of the neighborhood. You also need to know what the master insurance policy covers and what you will be responsible for maintaining and covering. There could be some limitations that you may not want to live with. Check before you buy.
These areas of concern:
- Have you read the Master Deed and Covenants for the community?
- Are their limitations as to family size or occupants?
- Is the HOA fully funded and operating as it should?
- Are there any lawsuits against the association?
- Have there been special assessments and what were they for?
- Are any major projects or assessments in the planning stage?
- What exactly does the HOA cover?
- How stable have the monthly fees been over the last few years?
- When were the last major improvements done to the community?
- Who maintains the streets and the grounds?
- May you alter the exterior appearance of your home?
- Is there an architectural approval process before work can be done?
- Is renting allowed?
- Are there pet limitations?
- Is parking assigned and how much parking is available?
- Who serves on the board of directors and can you get names and numbers?
- Does the HOA have a say in who buys in the neighborhood?
- Is there a master insurance policy that will reduce the cost of your home's insurance?
- Do you know what the insurance policy covers?
- How does the association handle the collection of delinquent monthly HOA fees?
Your real estate agent can help gather this important information for you. Being informed will help you make a good buying decision.
What You Don't Know About HOAs Can Hurt You
I am ready to help you with your next home purchase. Contact The Real Debbie Reynolds at 931-320-6730.
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