N.H. from San Francisco, California writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
I have an 8-year-old child living me. I live in a 1-bedroom condo/co-op. I’ve been on a transfer waiting list into a two-bedroom since I was 6 months pregnant. They’ve moved other people into and around the community. Yet, I’m still waiting. When I asked my status last year, I was told I’m number 12 on the list. Now recently I was told the list is closed and no one is being moved in or transferred. I feel it’s unfair because I’ve been waiting for so long. What I can I do?
Mister Condo replies:
N.H., I am afraid there isn’t too much that you can do at this time with this particular co-op. Co-ops have the right to limit who lives in which unit. They are subject to the Fair Housing Administration (FHA) rules but you haven’t described anything they have done that is inappropriate. Being Number 12 on the list only means that you are closer to anyone below you on the list. It could be years before anything opens up for you, especially if the list is closed and the co-op isn’t expecting any openings any time soon. I know that housing in your part of California is exceptionally competitive so I am not sure if you have other viable alternatives. I wish you the best of luck with your family and your housing search.