American Homeowners Resource Center (AHRC)

	Consumers for Housing Choice (CFHC)
	Delaware homeowners demand truth in housing sales

	Consumers for Housing Choice Demand clear Separate Categories There is a BIG difference between association-controlled residences and association-free residences. However, the difference is not clear in a real estate market where both types of houses are combined in the same category. Association-controlled residential properties must be labeled, advertised and listed in a separate category, clearly distinguishing them from association-free residences. Separating the categories will enable the consumer to understand that the association-controlled residence is a unique product, and thus avail him an opportunity to make clear and INFORMED choice. Combining the properties presents the mandatory membership obligations purchase as an insignificant afterthought. This is a serious misinterpretation of the product. It is, according to legal experts and lawmakers in the field, difficult to achieve the best consumer protection in the case of the common interest community purchaser because of the complex nature of the bundle of rights and obligations that each unit owner obtains. Considering ultimate consumer protection insurance as having an opportunity to understand the nature of the product in which he is purchasing; the same experts suggest that disclosing the complex bundle AFTER the consumer contracts to purchase a residential unit will assist the consumer in achieving that understanding. This expert approach has been a dismal failure. After making a decision on a residence located within an association, any consumer who finds the obligations "disclosed" unacceptable will not be permitted to complete the sale. Already having invested time, energy, money, and acquiring an emotional attachment to the house the consumer has already set his heart on his "dream home". Under the pressure of closing on THAT home, the average consumer is inclined to purchase the entire package - often without ever bothering to even read the complex documents. Most unit owners therefore have acquired little or no understanding of their obligations. Because they do not understand how important it is to participate in their associations' governance, association apathy is epidemic and people are being hurt. Self-government cannot exist in associations where apathy is rampant. Minority continues to dictate in all too many associations, while apathy remains on the increase. If consumers are to be protected, this apathy must be decreased. The consumer must be afforded the best opportunity the law can provide to understand the nature of what is often the most expensive purchase he will ever make, and one that can have an impact on the most intimate aspects of his life. Those not seeking or unwilling to accept the obligations can avoid viewing residences controlled by an association. Those seeking the rights and obligations of private governing can request association-controlled housing. ALL can be aware that there is a substantial difference and thereby each one will be given an opportunity to understand the nature of the different products and thereby be given an opportunity to make an educated choice. Comments or questions? Consumers For Housing Choice: stavros@dmv.com

	This webpage is provided by the American Homeowners Resource Center

American Homeowners Resource Center
P.O. Box 97 * San Juan Capistrano
California 92693
Phone: (949) 366-2125 * E-mail:ahrc@ahrc.com

Consumers for Housing Choice (CFHC)