Two years ago, I was thrilled to purchase my own condo, a significant milestone as a first-generation individual. The sense of accomplishment from achieving such a cornerstone of American dreams—education, career, and homeownership—was overwhelmingly beautiful.
I thought I had covered all my bases: securing a mortgage, choosing a great realtor, employing a thorough home inspector, and negotiating the best deal.
However, about four months ago, I discovered that the “odd” smell I blamed on my garbage disposal was actually a major leaky pipe in a common area of the building, causing black mold and extensive water damage.
Since moving in, I’ve faced numerous health issues such as weight gain, brain fog, fatigue, and more, which I eventually linked to over two years of exposure to black mold.
Dealing with this has been a nightmare, especially since joining the HOA board. I found them unhelpful in addressing the issues clearly outlined in the CC&Rs. It’s been an ongoing struggle, and I’m now considering legal action to recover costs for repairs and health care.
Here’s what I would do differently if I were to buy a condo again:
- Mold Inspection: Don’t skip on a mold test. It may seem unnecessary, especially in dry climates, but it’s a minor expense compared to potential future repairs and health issues.
- Understand the HOA: Learn who’s on the HOA board, their meeting frequency, and their tenure. Attend a session if possible to see how decisions are made.
- Review HOA Finances: Before you buy, review the HOA’s financial health. I was hit with a $2,000 special assessment right after moving in. Ensure there are sufficient reserves to avoid unexpected expenses.
- Talk to Neighbors: They can provide insights into the community, the effectiveness of the HOA, and other local concerns.
- Review All Governing Documents: Make sure you get and review all CC&Rs and any amendments to the bylaws. I missed restrictions on pet enclosures because I only received the original CC&Rs, not the amended bylaws.
As they say, hindsight is 20/20 but shared wisdom is also incredibly valuable! I hope my learnings help someone to avoid my same challenges and empower you to ask better questions and make more informed decisions.
Thania (TA Content Mgr)
