What have I learned from this condo transaction? A lot!
For starters, vet realtors more carefully and pay attention when interviewing. The one I chose was highly recommended by a friend. This realtor’s initial callback to me started out by her telling me she had just come from the doctor, she had breast cancer, and I was the first one she told. As I was sitting at a dealership waiting for my vehicle to be serviced, I felt stunned to hear this and very sorry for her. I also thought it was highly inappropriate to disclose this to me as our first introduction; in essence, dump it on me, a stranger and prospective business client. With compassion, I told myself this was a red flag and not use her. Conversely, months before, I had also contacted another realtor who previously rented an apartment to me right after fleeing my marriage. She was into numerology, and had high integrity in making sure what was purchased was a match with her clients. It was my error in bypassing her and succumbing to a friend’s influence. My initial response was right on. I learned, once again, how critical it is to follow my knowing and intuition.
As a buyer, examine meticulously the prospective purchase. Review pertinent documents and history whether it be a condo or house. With dubious disclosures, ask questions and make sure to get answers. Hire an independent contractor to inspect. Optimally, to facilitate these action steps, it’s best to not to be in a desperate situation and rush into a sale.
Pay attention to the fees at escrow closing, what’s included and what isn’t in the escrow documents. No easement documents with details were provided by the title company, the seller, and realtors. Unknowingly, I was also charged for a title company insurance policy.
Avoid using Fidelity National Title Company or any other title company that has in-house counsel. Per previous post regarding the incorrect Grand Deed and resulting issues, referencing the policy I paid for, I filed an insurance claim. There were months of no to poor communication followed by a direct denial of my claim. What a rigged system! I consulted with a real estate attorney who told me Fidelity National Title Company is so large and has a reputation for denying claims. Although I had a solid case against the company, I knew it would be cost prohibitive to pay a real estate attorney at an hourly rate because I was up against a company with a whole department of attorneys who were paid to delay proceedings and have the upper hand in prevailing. This set up does not allow for a level playing field and accountability. To reiterate, Fidelity National Title Company screwed up so badly, avoid at all costs!
Pay close attention to any red flags no matter how seemingly small. With the condo purchase and the last minute call, the property manager was part of the failure. She set the tone of the building and, as it turned out, was inept. So many frustrating issues were not resolved, she treated owners with annoyance, disregard, etc.
Trust and check in continually with inner knowing or intuition at each juncture of the housing process. Follow accordingly.
Do not buy another condo or house where there is an HOA (Homeowner’s Association.) Typically, the Board of Directors are dysfunctional and without vision of a well-run organization. With utmost clarity now, as autonomy is crucial to my well-being, I must have the power to govern and make decisions to ensure my safety and security. With the HOA situation, that is sorely hampered to non-existent, therefore, highly agitating.
On this journey of housing forgiveness, year 9, keep working to have self-compassion and compassion for all associated with this organization. Remember the power of Oops as segue to levity and higher awareness.
Keep focused on launching my creative projects and rising to inspiring possibilities. A home aligned with my sense of beauty and sensitivities will surely follow.
Finally, in acknowledgement of Easter Sunday, resurrection, and accepting new life and renewal, I’m reminded of Maya Angelou’s poem, “Still I Rise.”