All Forum Posts by: Lauren Olicker

Thankfully, all of these grand assessments are now levied, and those selling have either paid or will pay them at closing. Doesn't stop the HOA's from increasing... I see 55+ communities near, at or above $1k/mo -- a lot of elderly residents on fixed incomes are being priced out.

Here are 2 inspectors I've used in Palm Beach County, not sure why they wouldn't travel to Coral Gables, but reach out:

- Joe Higgins, Higgins Home Inspections -- 561-322-8904 (also a licensed GC)

- Gabe Hurtado, Impact Home Inspections -- 561-444-8670

- Kelvin Gross, 4 Point Inspectors -- 954-406-9920 (Gabe Hurtado recommendation, have not personally used)

Good luck!

Investment Info:

Condo buy & hold investment.

Purchase price: $210,000
Cash invested: $21,000

2/2 condo, in a 314-unit complex. 1.7 miles from the beach, great location. Got hit with a 24k assessment 1 year after purchase, but we are still cash flowing and got the condo at a great price, as well as at 3.25% interest. Onward!

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

I rent in the community and it is all-ages, and pet friendly. Additionally, you can rent it out for a minimum of 3 months (high season in Florida), 2x per year which is very investor friendly. Location is 1.7 miles from the beach, also extremely desirable whether it is annual or short term tenants.

How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Live there, I am a REALTOR and negotiated this on behalf of my fiancé, who owns it.