Response from Mariesa Holm on 5/7/2025

Kristy, I’m sorry to hear you’re unhappy with your experience purchasing a beautiful townhouse, though I feel it’s important to clarify several key facts for the sake of accuracy and transparency. First, I was not your representative in this transaction, nor did I have a duty to advise you. I represented the seller of the property you purchased. You were represented by your own buyer’s agent, who had the responsibility to guide you through reviewing the full HOA documents and disclosures—including the resale certificate. The resale certificate dated 2/4/2025, which was included in your contract (and by the way, provided to you prior to your agent helping you write an offer), did not disclose any current or officially approved special assessments, as confirmed in writing by the HOA at that time. However, both the resale certificate and the included HOA documents included a Reserve Study from January 2025 that clearly indicated a high likelihood of a future special assessment due to insufficient reserves. This information was available for your review prior to writing an offer and was provided in a timely manner per the purchase and sale agreement. The HOA’s contact information was included in the Resale Certificate as well as on the MLS listing for you and your agent to perform due diligence. In early March, I received informal communication from the HOA president that referenced potential future work needed; however, no specific assessment amount, timeline, or board-approved decision had been made or disclosed at that point. I relayed all verified information through the proper channels in accordance with industry standards and legal obligations. By the way, you received a Seller Disclosure statement which showed the roof had leaked in the last 5 years, and you opted to waive the right to a home inspection, which could have potentially given you information on the roof condition. Your buyer's agent, again which was not me, should have informed you of the risks associated with writing an offer. Your claim that I said “it wasn’t in writing” is simply inaccurate. Nowhere in emails or text exchanges did I say that. Ultimately, it is the buyer’s responsibility—together with their agent—to perform due diligence, review disclosures, and seek clarification from the HOA on any concerns. I acted in accordance with my duties to my sellers, and in good faith throughout this transaction. I understand special assessments are frustrating, and I do sympathize with the unexpected cost that may or may not come up. I encourage you to address your concerns through legal counsel. You can see from the many past client testimonials that I have the best interests of my clients at heart, and will always ask the question “what’s the right thing to do here?” before advising my clients through the pros and cons of each decision they will make. I will always proactively guide my buyers and sellers and lead with integrity, honesty, and professionalism.