Condo Neighbor Sells Parking Space or Did He?

H.L. from outside of Connecticut writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

I brought a condo that originally had two parking spaces. I was told that the last owner sold his parking space. My understanding is that all condos with two bedrooms in my complex have two parking spaces. How can I find out if the parking space was sold legally or if it was just taken?

Mister Condo replies:

H.L., it seems a week doesn’t go by where I don’t get a condo parking question. It is a thorn in the side of many condo dwellers like yourself and the answer is as different as the association in which you live. Deeded parking (parking that is part and parcel of the actual real estate deed) is owned by the unit owner. Assigned parking is when the association owns the parking lots and assigns the spaces as they see fit. Both are common so you need to check your condo documentation to see which scenario describes your property. Unit owners do not typically “sell” their deeded parking spaces as it now effects the title and deed to their unit. A mortgage company listed on the deed wouldn’t allow it because it decreases the value of the property. They may sell “use” of their space if they don’t need it and want to make some money from a neighbor with three vehicles and only two spaces. This is a private transaction and no one’s business but the two owners involved in the transaction. If someone parks in one of your deeded or assigned spaces, you should report it to the Property Manager or Board immediately so corrective action can be taken. If someone parks in someone else’s space, it really isn’t any of your business whether it was sold or taken. It is up to the unit owner whose space is being used to file a complaint if one is merited. All the best!