BUYING & SELLING
The six-document HOA buying file
Editorial research guide · September 22, 2026 · General information, not legal advice
1. The property record and applicable instruments
Ask your closing professional which title, lease, registered instruments and amendments apply in the jurisdiction. Keep the legal description with the civic address. Do not use a community outline, map pin or marketing name as a substitute.
2. The current invoice and fee class
Request the actual current invoice for the property. Identify the period, collection frequency, tax treatment, due date and the exact class being billed. The lowest class in a neighbourhood may not describe this home.
3. A written statement of the account
Ask the association or its authorized manager for the balance, any arrears and the applicable transaction procedure. A blank status-request form is not a paid-up certificate. Do not send money to payment details obtained only from a directory.
4. The current governing and amenity rules
Request the bylaws, relevant rules and amendment dates. Separate controls on the private property from rules for a lake, clubhouse or shared space. Ask who grants any required approval.
5. Household and access confirmation
Ask which owner or tenant household will hold privileges after the transaction, how credentials transfer, and what happens to existing tenants or additional occupants. Do not assume nearby water, a dock or a path gives the property a particular access class.
6. Budgets, statements and separate obligations
Request the financial information relevant to the association, together with any separate condominium, neighbourhood, utility or municipal charges. Ask your qualified adviser to assess documents rather than relying on a directory to certify legal or financial health.
Make it specific to your home.
Use the workbook to keep documents, confirmations and open questions together.
Open the property workbook