Starting to see many orders where not only the contact info and fees are needed. I am seeing more and more orders where the BPO mill wants to know if the HOA dues are current, date of the last payment made, etc. Also, checking a box that I attest this is correct?
Very difficult calling an HOA and having financial info disclosed to a BPO agent. Not to mention, I think it is highly inappropriate to ask for that info. IF my HOA discussed my payment history with someobody calling on the phone I would take exception. Especially in light of the fact that I am doing a BPO. Now, I am expected to call and pry their payment history out of somebody?

Try this..."hoa info and status of hoa dues, special assessments, legal issues, etc are not a matter of public record; vendor advises client to confirm the above to own satisfaction."

A couple of the HOA's in my area charge $35 for the information. I put that in the comment section. If the mills want to pay extra for the info, then great. No takers yet.

This is an example of a topic that should remain in the publci area. I just consider it inappropriate to even be asking. We are providing a value of the property, asking us to call the HOA, inquire about payments made is really taking us off the beaten path...

I try to get a phone number and that’s it. If I can’t find the number I just put the area code followed by 000-0000. Contract I just write unknown. Due to privacy issues most won’t give any information out anyway.

I just provide the contact information. Check your city or county websites, many have all registered neighborhood associations and contact info.

At the times when I need that information, the only thing they'll give out are what the monthly dues are and the due date. They have never given me ANY back dues owed unless I have a copy of the Trustee's Deed.

Just starting muttering 'privacy' laws....

I love those requests, along with the ones that ask if there are any title issues, zoning violations, etc. Do they seriously think anyone is going to run title on a BPO? Or spend two hours on the phone with the zoning department or an HOA? Nuts!

But by clicking "no" this shifts the burden of responsibility to the BPO agent. I include a little blurb about "no title issues were found based on my drive-by BPO only". This seems to get past quality control and cover my backside.

I usually put in a piece of boiler plate stating that information contained in the report is based on and limited to personal knowledge of the property, if any, and the public records used to prepare the report. Detailed information regarding title, zoning issues, habitability or functionality of systems is beyond the scope of the report and if needed, should be obtained from a qualifed title agent, government agency and/or property inspector.

[quote=FSBO]But by clicking "no" this shifts the burden of responsibility to the BPO agent. I include a little blurb about "no title issues were found based on my drive-by BPO only". This seems to get past quality control and cover my backside. [/quote]

I like that! I think I may start using that if you dont mind.