This Week's Question

March 13, 2006

By Nena Groskind

Q:   Recently, I attended an open house at a studio in a Back Bay condominium. As I was leaving, I met one of the owners, and told her I was interested in the unit, partly because I thought the location was excellent for rental income. She got very upset and told me owners must occupy their units for at least three years before they are allowed to rent them. Is it legal for a condominium to prohibit owners from renting their units or otherwise restrict their ability to do so?

A:   Absolutely, and these restrictions are not at all uncommon. This is a good illustration of why it is absolutely essential to review (or have an attorney review) the condominium rules and regulations, along with all the other condominium documents, before you purchase a condominium unit, or even consider making an offer to buy one.