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Some resources for condo buyers and sellers

Email|Link|Comments (2) Posted by Stacey Myers October 15, 2008 11:18 AM

Yesterday I wrote about one reader’s trouble buying a condo in Boston over the summer and trying to get contact information for the property owner. Today, I wanted to list some of the resources for condo buyers, sellers, and tenants that I came across while trying to help this reader out.

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s office, which couldn’t specifically address the reader’s situation, pointed out some options. First, the AG’s office has a section with information on Housing on its site, click here to check that out.

A spokeswoman said Chapter 183A: Section 10 of Massachusetts General Laws specifically might cover the reader’s trouble. It spells out the owner's interes and powers and duties of condo tursts or corporations. The various chapters of the Massachusetts Condominium Act can be found here.

Condo buyers unable to reach a resolution with a seller may be able to seek help through the AG’s mediation program.

Thre's also a New England Condominium magazine, which may be helpful and can be found by clicking here.

Also, the Massachusetts Association of Realtors pointed me to the Massachusetts Legal Reform Institute’s book “Legal Tactics: Tenant’s Rights in Massachusetts,” which can be purchased through the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education office in Boston for about $45. The book addresses tenant’s rights in private housing, and explains the rights of tenants in apartments that are being converted to condos.

Finally, it really is a good idea to have a lawyer to help you through such deals, and condo sales can have a few extra twists and turns so it’s a more specialized area of real estate law. It may be a good idea to hire a lawyer who specializes in condo laws. Try to get references from friends and family for a lawyer. However, if you don't know of any lawyers, the Massachusetts Bar Association does offer a referal service. (To reach the referral line, in Massachusetts you can call the toll-free line, 866-627-7577, or visit www.MassLawHelp.com. Hearing impaired people can reach the TTY line at 617-338-0585.)

Does anyone else have suggestions for resources that may help condo buyers, or sellers?

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2 comments so far...

Yesterday I wrote about one reader’s trouble buying a condo in Boston over the summer and trying to get contact information for the property owner.

It was so interesting that 8 people posted......well 7 if you dont count the post about what a terrible subject it was. Today I am putting my head down and trudging forward. And you people better post because it is so darn intersting.

Posted by chmarcus October 15, 08 02:38 PM

A great resource for condo buyers, owners, trustees and condo property managers is Community Associations Institute (CAI). CAI is a non-profit organization that has been providing education and resources for condominium and homeowner associations for more than 30 years.

The CAI New England Chapter is hosting its annual conference & expo on October 25th, 8am-2:30pm at the Marriott Hotel in Burlington, MA. There is no cost to attend this event which includes panel discussions, consultant booths and over 80 exhibitors that serve condominium and homeowner associations.

The CAI New England Chapter also publishes a monthly magazine CONDO MEDIA as well as educational programs for condominium trustees and property managers.

Posted by CAI New England Chapter October 15, 08 03:55 PM