Condo regime review: bylaws, fees, reserves and rental rules
If you're buying in a condominium or gated development, read the condo regime deed (régimen de propiedad en condominio), the bylaws (reglamento), recent assembly minutes, the budget, the reserve fund and whether the unit's fees are paid.
Why it matters
Bylaws can ban short-term rentals, pets or building styles, and unpaid or special fees can follow the unit.
Who helps
The administrator issues a no-debt letter; your attorney reviews the regime and bylaws; the notario adds the letter to the closing file.
What to do: Read the condo deed, bylaws, budget and minutes, and confirm fees are paid.
Documents
- Condo regime deed and bylaws
- Last 2–3 years of assembly minutes and budgets
- HOA no-debt letter
- Common-area insurance policy
Costs Estimate
- HOA fees: from tens to several hundred US$ per month depending on the development (estimate).
- Possible special assessments after hurricanes (estimate; check the reserves).
Estimates only. Get written quotes.
Common mistakes
- Counting on rental income before checking that rentals are allowed.
- A thin reserve fund in a hurricane zone.
- A developer still controlling the HOA with unclear accounts.
Say it in Spanish
- ¿Me puede enviar el reglamento y las últimas actas de asamblea?
Could you send me the bylaws and the latest assembly minutes? - ¿Se permiten las rentas vacacionales?
Are vacation rentals allowed?
Terms
Confirm the details for your case with your notario or attorney.
Common questions
What should I check in a condo?
The condo regime, bylaws, recent minutes, budget, reserve fund, rental rules and a no-debt letter.