Tag: real estate agent tips

What You Need to Know About HOAs: A Homebuyer’s Guide

Posted on by Will Sing

What is an HOA?

An HOA, or Homeowners Association, is an organization in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium building that makes and enforces rules for the properties and residents. When you purchase a property within an HOA’s jurisdiction, you automatically become a member and are required to pay dues, commonly known as HOA fees. These fees contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of common areas and sometimes cover utilities like water, sewer, and trash.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of HOAs

Benefits:

  • Reduced Risk Profile: By joining a larger group of homeowners, you’re contributing to the maintenance and exterior updates, which can reduce your individual risk.
  • Community Standards: HOAs help maintain property values by enforcing community standards and ensuring properties are well-maintained.

Drawbacks:

  • Cost: HOA fees can range from as low as $60 to over $500+ per month, depending on the age of the property, size of unit, and the reserve funds available for repairs and maintenance.
  • Control: You may have less control over certain aspects of your property, as the HOA will have rules and regulations that you must follow.

What Do HOAs Cover?

HOAs typically cover the maintenance of common areas, which can include landscaping, pools, and recreational centers. They may also cover certain utilities, though this can vary. For example, in the Mountain Park area, there are separate HOAs for specific building complexes and an overarching HOA for the entire area, providing amenities like a pool and a rec center.

Special Assessments

Special assessments are additional fees that can arise when the HOA’s reserve funds are insufficient to cover major repairs or improvements. These assessments are usually paid on top of your regular HOA fees and can significantly impact your budget. It’s crucial to be aware of potential special assessments, especially if the property is older and may require more extensive maintenance.

HOA Transfer Fees

When purchasing a property with an HOA, be prepared for an HOA transfer fee, typically ranging from $200 to $1,000. This fee can vary widely depending on the specific HOA.

Reviewing HOA Documents

In Oregon, there isn’t a large governing body overseeing HOAs, so it’s essential to thoroughly review all HOA documents. Here are the five key documents you need to examine:

  1. Reserve Study: This document details the HOA’s reserve funds and planned improvements.
  2. Financial Reports: Ensure the HOA is financially stable and can cover future expenses without needing special assessments.
  3. Meeting Minutes: Understand ongoing and upcoming issues, potential rule changes, and financial health.
  4. Governing Documents: These include the rules and regulations, such as pet policies and property use restrictions.
  5. Insurance Certificate: Verify that the HOA has adequate insurance coverage.

Getting Expert Help

While reviewing these documents, consider hiring a company like CID Analytics. They offer a service similar to a home inspection but for HOAs, providing a detailed report on the HOA’s health and potential issues. This service costs around $600 and takes about five business days to complete.

Conclusion

Understanding the role and impact of an HOA is crucial when buying a home. By reviewing the necessary documents and considering both the benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and lifestyle.

For personalized advice, you can schedule a free strategy session here. Also, check out my Free Buyer’s Guide to help you navigate the home buying process.

Watch the full video on Understanding HOAs: What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know.

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The Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When House Hunting in Portland

Posted on by Will Sing

Embarking on a house-hunting journey can be as daunting as it is exciting. With the Portland housing market’s unique dynamics, knowing what to look for in a home can save you from potential headaches and financial pitfalls. In this blog, we dive into the top five aspects you need to scrutinize to make an informed decision and secure a home that’s both a sanctuary and a wise investment. Watch the full video here for a detailed guide.

1. Inspect the Roof

The roof of a house does more than just top the structure; it protects everything underneath from water intrusion and other environmental elements. A well-maintained roof is crucial for the longevity of the home. Most roofs, such as those made from asphalt shingles, have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, while metal roofs can last up to 100 years. Ensure the roof is in good condition to avoid costly repairs down the line.

2. Evaluate the HVAC System

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are pivotal, especially in Portland where air conditioning isn’t standard due to historical building codes. Replacing an HVAC system can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. Before making an offer, verify the age and condition of the system to gauge any upcoming expenses.

3. Check the Water Heater

Who doesn’t love a hot shower at the end of the day? The water heater in your prospective home should be up to the task. Typically lasting 5 to 15 years, replacing a water heater can cost between $1,500 and $2,000. It’s important to check its current state and prepare for its replacement if it’s nearing the end of its lifecycle.

4. Assess Electrical Systems

Electrical systems are the lifeline of your home’s functionality. Older homes might have outdated systems like knob and tube wiring, which poses a fire hazard. Check the electrical panel brand; for instance, Federal Pacific panels are known to fail and could cost $4,000 to $8,000 to replace. Ensuring the electrical system is up to date will save you from potential dangers and expensive upgrades.

5. Plumbing and Pipes

From copper to PEX, the type of plumbing in a home can significantly impact its maintenance needs. Copper and PEX are preferred for their longevity and reliability. However, CPVC can become brittle, and galvanized pipes may corrode internally, leading to rusty water. Understanding what type of pipes are installed will help you anticipate maintenance or a complete replacement, which is crucial for long-term planning.

Bonus Tip: Structural Integrity

Lastly, don’t overlook the structure itself, including the foundation and walls. Signs of excessive sagging or diagonal cracks around doors and windows indicate undue stress. Horizontal cracks in the foundation are particularly serious, signaling potential structural failures.

Conclusion

House hunting is more than just finding a visually appealing space; it’s about ensuring the home you choose can stand the test of time without burdening you with unforeseen repairs. If these tips were helpful, consider subscribing to my instagram or youtube channel for more insights into navigating the real estate market effectively. For a deeper dive into what to watch out for when buying a home, check out our full video here.

If you are wanting a more in-depth chat, schedule a time to meet or contact me at hello@agentlivinginpdx.com

Your feedback is invaluable—drop us a comment below with your thoughts or additional tips you’d recommend. Happy house hunting!