Whaaattt? It's true folks! I'm working on an REO representing the buyer. The seller's agent requested the escrow officer order the HOA docs after we had an accepted contract. After 3 days of no communication from the HOA, the officer was informed that docs would not be released until after the property had an inspection performed by the HOA.
Oh, course the inspector happened to be going on vacation and wouldn't be returning until 2 days prior to our closing date!
What can we do? Absolutely nothing, in my opinion! What should have been done? At the time of the listing, the listing agent SHOULD have contacted the HOA to find out if they had any weird rules that could delay closing a pending sale!
You know, I rarely contact the HOA to ask questions. They are so darned hard to get in contact with, are usually impatient with my "dumb" questions, or just started working there and don't know what the heck they are doing!
It would be prudent just to check in with the HOA when you first list the property to verify the name of the association is correct, that you have the correct phone number (50% of time the phone number is wrong on the MLS) and a contact person.
In addition, ask;
How much is the doc fee?
How do want to be paid for the docs? Upfront/through escrow?
Will you accept a check/credit card/cash for payment?
Is there a doc request form that needs to be completed?
How much time does it take for you to process the order?
Do you deliver the docs or will we need to have them picked up?
Do you require any inspections of the property prior to closing?
Is there anything else we need to know?
OK, it's a phone call I hate to make, but if means our transactions won't be held hostage by the HOA, I guess I'll have to swallow what little is left of my pride and sanity and just do it!
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