Crisis Housing Solutions

What if I can’t pay large special assessment? Q: Our condominium association recently passed a rather large special assessment to get some work done that we do not have enough money in reserve to cover. Times are tight, and some of our neighbors will have trouble paying. What happens if someone is unable to pay a large special assessment? — W...

Experts: Renting may be better for now For the past several months, would-be 9 and renters alike have faced fluctuating market and economic conditions, most of which have given people nothing but tough financial decisions to make.

What do we need to do to sell deceased mom’s condo? Q: My widowed mother passed away a few months ago. I have been making payments to the condo association while my sister and I have been cleaning it. We want to sell it. What do we need to do next? — Kelly

Can sellers swap high-end appliances before closing? Q: We found a great townhome to purchase at an affordable price. It has a great location and is freshly renovated with designer appliances. A problem came up when we did the pre-closing walk-through. All of the high-end appliances were replaced with basic models. When we asked about it, they explain...

Can we get out of contract to sell home? Q: Several months ago, we had an opportunity in another state that seemed an excellent move for our family. We listed our home for sale, and the closing date is three weeks from now. We just learned that the opportunity has evaporated, and we can no longer sell our house. When we told our real estat...

South Florida has the most competitive rental market South Florida’s rental markets were some of the hottest in the country in 2023 — and while that will likely remain true for 2024, renters and buyers should have better luck this year than in previous years.

My daughter won’t sign off on home sale Q: About a decade ago, due to a health scare, I prepared a deed I found online and added my daughter’s name to my house. I thought this was good in case something happened to me. Now, I want to sell my home to downsize to a smaller condo, and my daughter won’t agree to sign unless I give her som...

I want to rent out inherited property; sibling wants to sell Q: My sister and I inherited our father’s townhouse when he recently passed away. We get along OK, but not great. I think it would be a good idea to rent it out, but she is still not sure and may want to sell it instead. Do you have any advice on how to proceed? — Robert

Can we find upcoming assessments before we buy a condo? A: Unforeseen expenses are a fact of life for any property owner. Sometimes, this comes as unexpected repairs, such as a new dishwasher or A/C. Other times, it is a new roof. This is where reserves come in. While single-family homeowners need to save money for things like a new roof, others who live...

What should I watch out for while hunting for first rental apartment? Q: After graduating college recently, I moved back in with my folks to settle myself. I found a good job and am looking to rent my first apartment. Because I don’t know what I don’t know, my mother, who reads your column, recommended I ask for advice. How can I make sure I find a suitable apartm...

Can I sell one of my parking spots? Q: I live in a condominium where every apartment has two assigned parking spots. Since it is just me, one of my neighbors asked me if I would sell him one of my spots. Since I am not using it and times are tight, the extra money would help. Am I allowed to do this? — Ted

Can HOA fine for driveway? Q: My daughter purchased a home in August 2020. The home has an asphalt driveway. She recently received a notice from the HOA that all driveways must be pavers or cement. If not completed by a specific date, they will start fining her. She is a single mom and works as a teacher; such an expense woul...