Tag Archives: Liens

Fake deed restrictions: a new twist on the HOA scam

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Most of the time, homeowners don’t think about the deed that grants them legal rights to own and use their property. It’s simply assumed that lenders, real estate brokers, and attorneys follow the proper procedures for conveying ownership and, when necessary, filing proper liens. Homeowners may think that their County government closely monitors legal documents that affect their property rights. But, as the following report reveals, most County Continue ReadingFake deed restrictions: a new twist on the HOA scam→

How HOAs abuse power to impose fines

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Another week, another report of HOA lunacy. The latest story comes from Seven Oaks Property Owners Association (SOPOA) in Wesley Chapel, Florida. According to a report by Kendra Conlon, WTSP, SOPOA’s management company Associa, working with an attorney from Bush Ross, is now threatening to foreclose on the home of Joe DiVierde, over a $1,000 fine for not painting his mailbox. WTSP reports that Bush Ross says it mailed Continue ReadingHow HOAs abuse power to impose fines→

MN woman sues HOA for discriminatory enforcement of covenants

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Today I share the predicament of a townhouse owner from Minnesota. Her story begs the question: barring any public nuisance or criminal activity, is it appropriate for a homeowners association to dictate your choice of house guests or roommates? And should it be legal for your Association to monitor and impose minimum time restrictions for their length of stay in your home? Teri Ross, a marketing and social media Continue ReadingMN woman sues HOA for discriminatory enforcement of covenants→

Ohio HOA forcing owners to pay up despite filthy pool, peeling paint

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Chances are, if you actually choose to live in an HOA, you do so expecting a clean, safe neighborhood. And maybe you envision yourself lounging by the community pool after a round of tennis. After all, the political spin from the Association Governed housing industry is that HOAs enhance and protect property values, keep the community looking good, and provide affordable access to amenities most homeowners could otherwise not Continue ReadingOhio HOA forcing owners to pay up despite filthy pool, peeling paint→