Today I read the following post on the Internet.
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My HOA is suing me for about 10k for 1year and 3 months of unpaid assessments(350 a month plus many fees who knows) I want to settle this what u thing would be a good offer or should I just request mediation in court?
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And here is my answer.
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If mediation is mentioned in the your HOA rules and regulations, you can certainly suggest it.
Keep in mind, however, that most Home Owners Associations are not just interested in settling a case. They also want to set a clear example for other owners. In other words, they fear that if they start being flexible with you, they would have to do the same with all other owners; otherwise, their association could be sued for discrimination.
Therefore, if you agree that you owe your HOA some money, it would be better if you contact them in writing as soon as possible. Tell them that:
- You are willing to settle your case in a way that is fair and workable for everybody;
- You need an itemized breakdown of the money owed; and
- Once you have that information, you would like to sit down with them and work out a settlement with the assistance of a mediator.
Needless to say, since the mediator is by definition neutral, you will have to figure out by yourself:
- The maximum amount you are willing to settle for
- The minimum amount of time you need to pay that amount; and
- The reason(s) why you believe that your offer is fair.
