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Hidden Condo Deal Killers - Ownership and Commercial Space

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Real Estate Agent with https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com 9023635

Hidden Condo Deal Killers - Ownership and Commercial Space

There Are Condo Ownership Rules That Can Block Financing Approval

Did you know one person can own too much of a condo project?
If that happens, the condo could be labeled non-warrantable.

Here’s the general rule:

  • For projects with 5–20 units, one person can’t own more than 2 units.

  • For 21+ units, no one can own more than 20% of all units.

That includes investors, partners, and even family trusts. Too much ownership concentration makes the property riskier for lenders.

Another common issue is commercial space. Fannie Mae says no more than 35% of the building’s total square footage can be used for retail, offices, or restaurants.

If your condo sits above a large café or fitness center, it could push the building into " non warrantable " territory.

Up next, we’ll cover new construction rules, lawsuits, and condo-hotel “condotel” risks that every buyer should know.

Holly and Heath Coker are the best real estate agents in Falmouth

Posted by

Heath Coker, Associate Broker
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Robert Paul Properties
teamcoker.robertpaul.com
508-548-8888  Licensed in MA
Its a beautiful day on Cape Cod!

James Heath Coker | Create Your Badge

Comments(4)

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Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good Saturday morning, Heath. This is good information to share with buyers and sellers.

Nov 08, 2025 05:04 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc - Walhalla, SC
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.

Excellent post, Heath! These are such important details that many buyers — and even some agents — overlook until it’s too late. Ownership concentration and commercial space limits can absolutely make or break financing. I really appreciate how clearly you explained the warrantability rules — it’s information every condo buyer should understand before making an offer. Looking forward to your next post on new construction and condotel risks!

Nov 08, 2025 05:48 AM
GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore
Arizona Elite Properties - Chandler, AZ
Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net

These are good rules to prevent a monopoly, Thanks for sharing, make it a great Saturday and enjoy your weekend! Bill

Bill Salvatore, Realtor- Arizona Elite Properties

Nov 08, 2025 06:20 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Hello Heath... this is more great information on what considerations go into purchasing a condo. You should put together a mini-ebook of your posts.

Nov 08, 2025 09:35 AM