Condo Owner Assessed While Selling… Who Pays?

S.A. from New Haven County, Connecticut writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

I have a question about assessments for major repairs. I am in the process of selling my condo unit. The association has just levied an assessment for paving. Am I responsible for this or is the new owner?

Mister Condo replies:

S.A., the short answer is that you are responsible for the payment of the special assessment as you are the owner of record when the special assessment was levied. You don’t mention how far along in the process of selling your condo you are but as long as you are still the owner, the assessment is yours. However, if you haven’t actually sold your condo yet, you may wish to reconsider your asking price as the fresh pavement may increase your unit’s value. Best wishes!