Is a Bond for Deed sale considered a rental by a condo association?

Full question:

Is a Bond for Deed sale considered a 'rental' by a condominium association until the 'bond' changes to a 'deed'? My condo association limits rentals to 10% of units. Owners are trying to get around it by selling Bond for Deed.

Answer:

The classification of a Bond for Deed sale as a rental depends on the condominium association's bylaws and governing documents. Typically, a Bond for Deed, also known as a contract for deed, is a legal agreement where a buyer pays for real property in installments. After a specified payment, the seller agrees to transfer the title to the buyer. While it has similarities to renting or leasing with an option to buy, it is not exactly the same.

If the bylaws do not clearly define what constitutes a rental, it may be possible to amend them. In general, when interpreting vague contract terms, the following hierarchy is used:
a) Terms from discussions and writings between the parties that do not contradict the contract;
b) Terms implied by the conduct of the parties;
c) Terms implied by industry custom; and
d) Terms implied by applicable law.

In summary, whether a Bond for Deed sale is treated as a rental will depend on the specific language in the condominium association's governing documents.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

A Bond for Deed, or contract for deed, is a real estate agreement where the buyer makes installment payments to the seller for a property. The seller retains the title until the buyer completes the payments. Once the final payment is made, the seller transfers the title to the buyer. This arrangement allows buyers to occupy the property while paying for it, similar to renting, but with the intention of ownership.