T.S. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
I am having trouble getting this Condo approved for mortgage financing. I was told that if the current budget does not have a line item for the Reserve Fund, that would make the HOA ineligible. Can you give an example of a budget that shows a Reserve Account? Why is a savings account on a balance sheet not sufficient? The HOA is saying this is the Reserve Account. Please help.
Mister Condo replies:
T.S., when reviewing the condo’s eligibility to qualify for mortgages that are backed by the FHA, the lenders look to see that there is a Reserve Fund and that the association is making at least the minimum amount of annual contribution (Currently 10% of the budget). Local mortgage lenders typically require this stipulation because they want their mortgages insured or underwritten by the FHA. Typically, condominiums maintain FHA approval status as it makes it easier for units to be bought and financed by owners seeking FHA-backed finance options. However, there is no legal requirement that forces the condominium to comply or even maintain FHA approval status, leaving mortgage seekers like you in the lurch. There are mortgage companies that specialize in dealing with FHA approvals and this association might be well served by working with one to achieve FHA approval, making it possible for mortgage seekers such as yourself with better access and option when it comes time to take a mortgage on one of the condo units within their association. It isn’t as simple as having the association claim an association-owned saving account is the Reserve Fund. Good luck!
Please be aware that FHA Approval status can be tedious and expensive, especially to maintain. Many associations forego this option for those reasons.
What’s missing here is an educational provision for bankers, who, like most, don’t really understand the vagaries of ownership in common interest communities.
As well, owners and potential owners must take responsibility for keeping up with the business-end/ financial status/ corporate records facets of CIC ownership/ potential ownership. Due diligence and non-apathy make associations better, and preserve these substantial investments.