Buying a Condo in West Hollywood: What to Review Before You Make an Offer

West Hollywood is its own city, separate from the City of Los Angeles, with its own rules on rentals, rent stabilization and building safety. Much of what's for sale here is condos and townhomes. When you buy a condo, you're buying into a building and an association as much as a unit. Here's what to review before you write an offer, or during your contingency period.

1. The HOA documents

In California, the seller provides the association's documents, including the CC&Rs, bylaws, budget and reserve information. Read them closely.

• Budget and reserves: the reserve study shows how well funded the association is for future repairs. Thin reserves can lead to special assessments.
• Special assessments: ask about current ones and any that are being discussed.
• Board minutes: recurring topics like leaks, elevators or deferred maintenance tell you a lot.
• Litigation: ask whether the association is involved in any lawsuits.

2. Rules that affect how you use the unit

Check the CC&Rs for leasing restrictions, minimum lease terms, pet rules and renovation approvals. West Hollywood also has its own short-term rental rules. Review both before planning to rent the unit.

3. Financing

Some loan programs, including FHA and VA, require the building to be approved. Talk with your lender early. HOA dues also count toward your monthly debt when you qualify for a loan.

4. Insurance

The association's master policy covers some things and your own condo policy (HO-6) covers others. Ask what the master policy includes, including whether it carries earthquake coverage.

5. Seismic retrofits

West Hollywood requires seismic retrofits for certain older wood-frame buildings with soft first stories, such as tuck-under parking. Ask whether the building is on the list and whether the work is done.

6. Tenant-occupied units

If the unit comes with a tenant, West Hollywood's rent stabilization rules are separate from the City of LA's. Confirm how they apply before you buy.

Thinking about a condo in West Hollywood? Reach out and I'll help you work through the documents before you commit.

Andrei Rafols | Beverly & Co. | DRE# 02020881 | (310) 651-1906 | andrei@andreirafols.com

General information only, not legal or tax advice.