HOA Violations on Auction Property

[Saji Ijiyemi]

I'm closing on an REO/Auction property next week. The bank just notified me that there is an HOA violation on the property -- a tree was uprooted and needsbto be planted back -- they want me to sign a form to say I am aware of the violation and would be bearing the responsibility to plant the tree back. They said they've warned that the property is sold AS IS WHERE IS. My question is 1) Is this a deal breaker? 2) How much does it cost to plant a tree? 3) Someone suggested I called the HOA company to send a fine for the violation to the Closing Company... and that way the Seller/Bank will be responsible for the Violation... Can I do that? 4) Can I refuse to take the responsibility for the tree?