Things you should know about HOAs! Condos Beware! Audra Lambert 2024

[@lucisorchidplace]

We lived in a Community with HOA and in 2007 they raised to over a $500 a month after a Hurricane in 2005. We left that property to never live in another community with HOA again. Thanks for the video. Great information. ❤

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks so much for sharing. People need to beware of HOA hikes.

[@lindawilson4625]

The reason HOAs are increasing so much is in many cities the builders can't get permits unless they agree to form an HOA. The city wants to get out of having the long term maintenance of the roads, etc. in those communities. Rock & a hard place for the average person :-(

[@johnhaller5851]

Retention ponds and seasonal stream wet areas are a big reason in certain areas, which also have long term maintenance requirements for mowing.

[@AudraLambert]

Ugh..thanks for bringing this to our attention. I have not heard of that yet.

[@H2SO4H20]

Private streets are the bane of many HOA's. Shortly after we moved into our HOA on Y2K day, we found that all 65 households were each faced with a $10,000 special assessment for street and sidewalk repairs. Being a bit perturbed at the surprise, I led a movement to kick out the current HOA board, got elected to the board and then led a project to cede our private streets to the city. It cost us about $100K to bring our streets and sidewalks up to snuff enough for the city to take them over but we did that out of our reserve fund without special assessments. I probably wouldn't have done it if our HOA had been gated but it wasn't and couldn't be due to a public street running through part of it. It helped that three of our homeowners were attorneys who worked with city legal staff to help make it happen.

[@johnward8064]

Great info in this video. Contrary to what most people say, I would never live in a community without an HOA! The tyranny of neighbors is much worse than the tyranny of the HOA.

[@johnharper2016]

Owned 2 different homes in Naples, FL 1990/2014. Both in HOA's. Glad we got out just in time. Both were decent HOA's with not a lot of problems. First one had 200 homes. Fee was reasonable and provided nice amenities. Second, 2003/2014, had 800 homes of different types. Single family, Condos, Patio homes, etc. Tennis courts, great pool, nice clubhouse. Reasonable fee. That has all changed. We keep up with these communities we used to live in. Fees have skyrocketed, insurance through the roof, taxes are crippling. We moved to Western North Carolina in 2014. Best decision we ever made.

[@kathrynbaker5188]

Shhhhh! Don’t promote beautiful western NC!

[@RABPWarrior]

Those of us retirees that are on a budget can become house, poor, or lose our homes as a result of sudden changes in HOA fees

[@AudraLambert]

Exactly...very worrisome is you are on a fixed income.

[@917Stefano]

Thanks Audra, there is a lot of great info in this video. And some of the comments are also eye-opening.

[@markh.6687]

Well, the expense rules out condos and HOAs for many potential buyers, since they can't absorb huge fee increases or special assessments.

[@AudraLambert]

I do agree. Its an additional expense you have no control over.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Condo boards can be awful. Our building needed tuckpointing but they said we couldn’t afford it. I had mildew on drywall in one room. I found them adding wallpaper to upper floor (not lobby which always had it) elevator lobbies. I questioned why they weren’t taking care of leak issues but had money for decorating. I was told by the board president my next door neighbor (her friend) wanted to sell and we needed to make the place better looking. I couldn’t sell my condo with mildewed walls but that was ok with her (I wanted to buy a house). I had to go to the city building department to get them involved. Absolutely maddening - delayed me a whole year and of course I was now buying in a seller’s market.

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks so much for sharing. This too can happen. People need to be aware of this stuff.

[@Kristen289]

It’s awesome watching you grow. I’ve been following you since the beginning. Great channel with so much helpful info.

[@corgiowner436]

My mom lived in a condo and the HOA had excessive insurance requirements for any workmen in the building. Made it impossible to find anyone to do minor repairs, replace carpet etc.

[@AudraLambert]

Ugh...so sorry to hear that...but thanks for sharing.

[@larryberry2436]

I have lived in two communities with HOAs. The first was somewhat bad, the president took $150,000. The second was ok, but didn’t enforce rules on renters (yes, renters were allowed). A retired neighbor and I took turns cutting their grass as they would not. I wouldn’t say never again, but likely not.

[@AudraLambert]

There are good HOAs and others that are not run well. Just need to do your research as to how the HOA is being managed. Very important.

[@elizabethlangheim7214]

I’ve lived in an HOA community for 8 years. Fees have gone from $200 a month to $420 a month in that time. I think that is a pretty steep increase. We just got a young president in for this year so we’ll see if the increase doesn’t become the top amount allowed by HOA rules like usual. We have a good reserve. Other than that everyone gets along and the HOA management company is easy to work with. There is one guy who refuses to put his dogs on a leash and doesn’t get in trouble even though we’ve been warned over and over to use leashes with dogs. Luckily I have indoor only cats. The rules say we aren’t allowed to put in fences or tie dogs up outside,so it always surprises me people with dogs will move in.

[@susananders3834]

Excellent (and scary) video. One thing to consider is whether you can serve on the HOA board. My late father, as well as my sister and BIL (they took turns) served on their boards for some of the reasons you mentioned. I don't think my blood pressure could take it ;(

[@AudraLambert]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, several homeowners have served on the board. You Couldn't pay me enough to do that. It is a very tough job.

[@audiophileman7047]

You just had to talk about HOA's and condos today. 😒It just evoked some really bad memories of the condo I owned for a short time. The HOA was run by fascists; they would create unreasonable rules that often didn't seem to apply to the people who sat on the board. Even the contracted property management company rep thought that they were unreasonable. I sold the condo in 2016 and made a little money, but I was so glad to get away from it, and I vowed to myself that I would never own a condo again.👏 After hearing how much worse the situation is for owners of condos now, I'm really happy to no longer own a condo in California.👏👏 Often times condos aren't built very well too.😲 I had a neighbor who was so distraught about the living conditions and the tyranny of the HOA that she was trying to get a coalition of owners to challenge them. She was looking for my help. Thankfully, I told her that I didn't own the property anymore.💪👊

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks for sharing. There are definitely pros and cons. Condos are really tough right. now...especially in California.

[@audiophileman7047]

@@AudraLambert You heard the summary of my story. If I told you the details, you'd faint. Unless a person has no other choice, I would definitely not recommend owning a condo. My trusted agent tried to warn me before buying, but I didn't know how things could be so different from one condo to the next. If you choose to take a walk on the dark side of condo ownership, you must do your research very very carefully and pay particular attention to who runs the board and even interview them before buying.

[@johnhaller5851]

One thing I wish the MLS would do is add a couple more items to listings. Right now, at least in my MLS, the only HOA entry is cost. This tends to lump voluntary/social HOAs with CCR required HOAs. If the listing had an indication which type it was, that would be helpful. Second would be an indication of CCRs which exist, but do not require an HOA. A bonus would be a link to the HOA web site, if one exists.

[@AudraLambert]

You make some very good points. That would be very helpful!!

[@Island-px7bw]

Super informative! Thank you, Audra.

[@johnkatrich2954]

You are so conscientious and you did an awesome job on this video pretty lady!

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks so much! Really appreciate it.

[@barbarathomas2471]

I volunteered to be on the board of my condo HOA because I wanted first hand knowledge of any important news. The HOA had decided to assess each owner $15,000 for repairs. Sold my place immediately. However, I wish I had an HOA in my current neighborhood!

[@H2SO4H20]

My motto: The only thing worse that having an HOA is not having an HOA.

[@showdogmissy]

I sold a beautiful home because of the "Selective enforcement" by the HOA president. He was also in the town's council. He was a piece of WORK as was the management company. I was not the only to sell after a 2 year holding.

[@steveolive9991]

Living in an HOA is like living in the military, except the HOA board members may be immature and have psych issues. Unfortunately, most all new construction single family homes are in an HOA.

[@AudraLambert]

You make very good points.

[@KHX274]

As an HOA pres, I would add that would be buyers confirm the HOA is fulfilling all responsibilities it has been tasked with in the bylaws/cc&rs. Ours did not for 25 years, and it’s been a haul getting people to recognize the true maintenance responsibilities (and associated costs) of the Association.

[@imalivinintexas]

You’re worth listening to Ms. Audra and many thanks \o/

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks so much!

[@RABPWarrior]

Audra, I am going to tap dance on the thumbs up and subscribe buttons

[@AudraLambert]

Thank you:)

[@RABPWarrior]

Great news in Colorado house bill number 1337 has new 2024 HOA laws and it is awesome so definitely read it

[@wendypierce5621]

I sold my condo recently and am glad to be out of an HOA. I ran for the board and then got stuck on it for 10 years because no one else wanted to do the job. Nothing makes you hate people more than being on a condo board. I’m fortunate that I was able to trade up to a house, and there is a lot of pride of ownership in the neighborhood, which is what HOA’s try to emulate.

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@bettysmith4527]

Sticking with my SFH non HOA, been there done that and never again!! First home was a brand new condo, when I sold it a few years ago the fee was 160.00 a month, now it's over 300, and the rules and fines, F that shit!! I got fined 50.00 a day because some of my potted flowers were not perfect!

[@AudraLambert]

I hear this a lot. Sorry to hear about your fines. so annoying.

[@LeaMcCaw]

Thanks Audra. We are considering an HOA for our next property as we plan to travel part of the year and that would take care of the outside maintenance and we'd have additional amenities (pool, gym etc). But maybe we'd be better off to hire a gardener handy man and join the Y. Good points.

[@AudraLambert]

There are a lot of pros to an HOA. However, the cons are really something to consider. Just be very selective of the community you invest in.

[@willsx2]

Not all HOAs are bad. I have lived in 2 locations with HOAs and have had no problems. In both, the management company was on top of any maintenance needs of common areas and amenities. Adequate reserves were maintained so while dues did increase, it was pretty much in line with inflation. The dues also provided quite a number of services I would otherwise be paying for anyway. You do need to read the HOA docs before buying and once you own, pay attention to the minutes or go to meetings. It seems to be the "in" thing to hate on HOAs but if you do your due diligence, they can make life easier.

[@kathrynp7595]

We have had good luck with our HOA, the dues are only $100 month. We live in a upscale community in Carlsbad, Ca and it is nice to see that all the homes and yards are very well maintained, good for resale 👍🏼

[@RABPWarrior]

The “in” thing is what’s happening to seniors loosing their homes due to the power of HOAs putting a lien on their retirement properties and selling them.

[@willsx2]

​​@@RABPWarriorI agree that is an issue with some badly managed HOAs but the same thing can happen with rents, property taxes and insurance

[@AudraLambert]

I agree completely. I have had good luck with the HOAs I have lived in too. You just need to do your research when purchasing.

[@lisag1153]

It's great living in a home without an HOA, the downside is your neighbors don't live in an HOA either.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, I couldn't agree more!

[@johnhaller5851]

I'm in a city with very active property standards enforcement. They drive every street and alley once a week, as well as take neighbor complaints. It's not a small cost to do this. They tend to enforce the most annoying issues without enforcing paint color standards.

[@mikedv7954]

Love your work. Thanks

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks so. much!

[@ChrisMalfaIIX-k9b]

Yeah, we are looking in Florida. We don't want an HOA and are only considering concrete block homes built on a slab, preferably with terrazzo floors.

[@RABPWarrior]

We’re looking in Arizona and Colorado but in Colorado a bill was passed that there is no limit to the amount HOAs can raise dues

[@AudraLambert]

Best of luck...I understand why you would want to do that:)

[@venanciasandin6475]

What information do you have on manufactured homes? I need a home but I can’t find one I can afford.

[@smiles36njcp]

I don't know much about manufacturered homes but I was also looking at them to purchase because the house price itself was affordable. However, in the area I was looking they all have land leases, which made the cost outrageously expensive. More expensive than a regular single family home. You own the home but not the land too and land leases are for a certain number of years.

[@AudraLambert]

I do agree with the comment below.

[@corgiowner436]

Also beware of older buildings with galvanized plumbing. They are at the end of their life and you’re almost guarantee a “special assessment.”

[@florencehendrick4781]

Thank you Audra. Please would you share about a PUD, a planned urban development? Also, what about a PUD that refuses to update/clean the dead trees, bushes, and the mold all over the guardhouse, and fix cameras at the back gate, refuse to resurface the roads, and they allow certain people like the resident realtors who buy homes dirt cheap (that's for another day) and disregard the "keep your property cleaned up" listed in the bylaws. I've had numerous realtors tell me that their clients are complaining about the lack of updating and the curb appeal is horrible!!

[@AudraLambert]

Hi There Florence! Good to hear from you! Yes, a PUD does have their HOAs and CC&Rs. I think a lot of homeowners that live in a PUD/HOA think that the management company is there for concierge service. The amount you pay..you should be getting concierge service. Unfortunately, most management companies maintain a community on a schedule. They don't fix "things" when "things" arise. The put the gardener on a schedule, the roof repairs on a schedule. Its gets done when they get around to it..if ever. Not always the best service. That is one of the major downsides as well.

[@mariaweldzius9937]

Thank you for your advice , help me a lot Next Year we will move to end other city , so i try to be Smart . You given lo important to need know . thank you , God Blessed.

[@AudraLambert]

You are so very welcome. Glad I could help.

[@kt6332]

Your videos are awesome, no worries!

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thank you!!

[@dancingmeerkat2078]

I live within an HOA in Arizona. During the last meeting, the president mentioned if anyone tattletales on a neighbor, they are now legally obligated to tell the homeowner who tattled on them. I’m not sure if this is true or not. How do I confirm this?

[@grl57]

Seriously?

[@johnhaller5851]

Whether legally obligated or not, that kind of policy will reduce the complaints about marginal issues. What happened to the old neighborhood values of talking to your neighbor and asking about if they need some help when one notices issues?

[@AudraLambert]

What...I have never heard of that. Although, that would stop some of the complaints I am an sure. I would ask the president where in the CC&Rs and or where it states it his legal obligation to tell the homeowner who tattled. You need to see documentation. I don't think that is correct.

[@dancingmeerkat2078]

@@AudraLambert Thank you for your reply. He made it sound like it was either a Maricopa county or Arizona law. I will ask him to confirm.

[@smiles36njcp]

Im considering purchasing in an HOA community so trying to learn all I need to know. This video was extremely helpful. Just have one question..What did you mean to find out how much home insurance an HOA has? Also what would their home insurance cover regarding my property?

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there! HOAs have their own insurance policies they have to carry for their community/common areas. Some HOAs are dropping their insurance because its too expensive and/or no insurance company will insure the community. Its a real problem. You want to know if the HOA has insurance and what do their policies cover? You will also need to get your own home owner's insurance. Make sure you work with an insurance company that can guide you regarding the property policy coverage. Its very difficult and expensive to get home insurance now-a-days. You will want to find that out first thing you do when purchasing a home.

[@smiles36njcp]

@@AudraLambert Thank you. Appreciate the info.

[@SkyfallLodge]

The voice audio on this video seems to be heavy on the right. is anyone with headphones getting the same thing?

[@mcushla]

Yes, Audra’s voice was not in stereo. I enjoy the videos, but the sound was definitely off - voice in right ear, other sound effects in left ear.

[@AudraLambert]

Ugh..you are right. Working on it..thanks for the heads up!

[@SkyfallLodge]

@@AudraLambert I didn't want to come across as rude or entitled. I know you had difficulty with making this video. Hang in there and keep at it. You got this Audra!! Let's go!

[@jackibrown3631]

@AudraLambert.. how do I contact you with a question?

[@ChrisMalfaIIX-k9b]

Here in Rehoboth Beach De a condo building was sinking in the sand.

[@smiles36njcp]

Omg! What kind of protections are in place for the owners of the condos? Move out and sue the builder?

[@AudraLambert]

Oh no. Often times the builder is no longer in business and the insurance company will not cover all the construction and loss. Horrible situation.

[@Jane-z9d]

Can you be forced to enter an HOA by neighbors developing around you? (All of us are property owners).

[@AudraLambert]

I haven't heard of that ever occurring. Usually you would be grandfathered into an association but the rules and dues don't apply to you.

[@Miz-Newsy]

We are in an HOA now and are moving to a City that has no HOAs. So tired of the Karens in this neighborhood.

[@roddyrod583]

I really like living in gated community. I feel so much safer.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, there are definitely perks!!

[@BureaucracyWorld]

I'm moving into the wood, where there is no HOA.

[@AudraLambert]

Laughing...not a bad idea!!

[@thomascabral8443]

thank you again had one before ikky eww,,

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks for watching:)

[@stacir3727]

This is the first time that the audio is kind of bad on any of your videos

[@AudraLambert]

Ugh..thank you. Using new equipment. Working on it.

[@billbaber6653]

Better to have than not.

[@AudraLambert]

Some would agree:)

[@RABPWarrior]

Agree or not, awareness is everything.

[@AudraLambert]

Agreed!

[@grl57]

Hi Audra! This big brother is useless in my opinion. We own a 55 plus home with an HOA. We rented the place and the tenants were great! However our neighbor assaulted them with a gun. The HOA won’t do anything. And since we were not parties, we do not have access to the arrest information. Of course we have to disclose this to new renters and to any future buyers which I am sure will affect the value of the property. Any advice? Thank you!

[@AudraLambert]

Oh good grief. That is just terrible!! The HOA shouldn't be involved in assault situations. That is usually the police/sheriff responsibility. Yes, you would have to disclose that to your next tenant and/or buyer. I am surprised you don't have more rights. Was your neighbor trespassing? That is just terrible. The HOAs responsibility is to maintain the community...not police the area. So sorry!!

[@petebusch9069]

HOA life is just wrong. Live your life so you have time and energy to manage your own property and create your own little paradise.

[@AudraLambert]

Many people feel the same way:)

[@ChrisMalfaIIX-k9b]

That's a scary position to be in.

[@GK-ir5yp]

Sorry, but some management companies are not very good at helping homeowners!

[@AudraLambert]

You are very right. You need to do your research!

[@Jane-z9d]

There should be a noise violation for screaming little kids

[@AudraLambert]

Laughing...couldn't agree more!

[@MD-dw5qg]

Funny how youtubers have all of these anti HOA vids. The real problem, at least with my HOA, is the management company. They are NON RESPONSIEVE to homeowners, unless someone is feeding squirrels, or not breaking down boxes that go into the dumpster.

[@AudraLambert]

There is a lot of truth to that. A lot of management companies aren't the most responsive...unless their are violations involved. lol

[@km4617]

I suggest do not purchase in a POA!! It’s worse than HOA

[@AudraLambert]

You're probably right!

[@CoolestRedHead]

Sounds like a hot mess🤦🏽‍♀️

[@RABPWarrior]

I assure you, it is beyond hot, it’s freeze-dried 😂😂😅😅

[@RABPWarrior]

I assure you, it is beyond hot, it’s freeze-dried 😂😂😅😅

[@CoolestRedHead]

@@RABPWarrior ooooo this is a good one!! 😂😂😂

[@AudraLambert]

Its can be.

[@stevefournier6375]

Great Podcast, HOA suck!

[@RABPWarrior]

Audra, I am going to tap dance on the thumbs up and subscribe buttons

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh..thank you:)