Selling A Home with Code Violations in Lake Worth

Step 2: Learn About The Code Violation

If you have received a notice of violation for your property in Lake Worth it is important to gather all the necessary information about the violation from local code enforcement. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to learn about the code violation and make informed decisions about how to remediate it.

Gather all the necessary information.

To make the best decision possible, you need to know all the details about the code violation impacting your property. This includes the violation number and name, the type of violation, the date it was issued, the inspector that found the violation, ongoing penalties for non-compliance, and the steps required to remediate the violation. You should have received a notice of violation (either in the mail or posted on your door) that contains some of this information.

Contact the code enforcement department.

While the notice of violation is helpful, it rarely addresses how to remediate the violation. Therefore, we recommend contacting Lake Worth‘s code enforcement department directly to get more information. You can do this by visiting the Code Compliance Division or Construction Services and Building websites or by calling 561.586.1782.

E-mail: None available.
Website: Code Compliance Division
Address: 7 North Dixie Highway, Lake Worth Beach, FL, 33460
Telephone:  561.586.1782.

The Community Code Compliance Division ensures that properties within the City of Lake Worth Beach adhere to the City’s regulations relating to:

• Zoning enforcement
• Illegal objects on the right-of-ways (signs, pyramids, rocks, logs, etc.)
• Overgrown vacant lots
• Junk and trash
• Livestock and/or fowl (roosters, chickens) on residential/commercial property
• Illegally parked or stored commercial vehicles on residential property
• Improperly stored boats and recreational vehicles on residential property
• Major auto repairs on residential property
• Improper swimming pool barriers
• Unauthorized multi-family use in residential districts
• Setback violations – sheds and other structures too close to the property line
• Illegal flags, banners, streamers and signs
• Illegal fences and hedges
• Abandoned and/or junk vehicles on commercial/residential property
• Unauthorized business in residential districts
• Unlicensed Rental properties
• No Certificate of Occupancy/Use
• Construction Work without a permit
• Unauthorized garage sales
• Overflowing commercial dumpsters

Violators are provided time to correct issues, and administrative hearings are scheduled for those that are not corrected.

Code Compliance Officers are cross-trained to address multiple violations.  When life-safety issues are involved, officers work with officials from Palm Beach County Sheriff’s’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire Department, the building officials, and public works.

• Any structural repairs, re-roofing, and most plumbing and electrical work require a permit.
• Any business located within the city limits requires a City and Palm Beach County Business Tax receipt (Occupational Licenses).
• All properties that are used for commercial purposes or residential rentals must have a Use & Occupancy certificate as well as a current inspection.
• A setback is required between the property line and sheds, air conditioner units, RVs, boats, etc.
• The City may clean/clear vacant lots after the required legal notification is made to the property owner.
• The City may demolish unsafe residential buildings under the Standard Housing Code.

Check the public I-Frame system.

You can also check Lake Worth‘s public I-Frame system for information on violations or expired permits. This will provide you with additional details about the violation and help you understand what steps are required to remediate it.

Questions to ask code enforcement

When you connect with code enforcement, here are some questions you should ask:

1. What will be the penalty if the code violation isn’t corrected?
2. What must be done to remediate the violation?
3. If the violation is corrected, what is the process for re-inspecting and closing the code enforcement case?
4. Is there any other information you can tell me about the violation?

Learning about the code violation impacting your property in Lake Worth is an important step in the process of remediation. By gathering all the necessary information and contacting code enforcement, you can make informed decisions about how to address the violation and avoid further penalties.

Step 3: Sell “As-Is” or Remediate The Violation On Your Own?

If you own a property in Lake Worth with a code violation and are looking to sell, you may be wondering whether to sell the property “as-is” or remediate the violation on your own first. In this article, we will explore the benefits of both approaches to help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of selling “as-is”

Selling a property “as-is” means that you are selling the property in its current condition, with no repairs or renovations made to remediate the violation. There are several benefits to selling “as-is,” including:

• Faster sale: Selling “as-is” can often lead to a faster sale, as buyers who are willing to take on a property with a code violation may be more likely to make an offer.
• Lower costs: By not making repairs or renovations to remediate the violation, you can save money on the cost of those repairs.
• No liability: Once you sell the property “as-is,” you are no longer liable for any issues related to the code violation.

Benefits of remediation

Remediating the violation on your own before selling the property can also have several benefits, including:

• Higher sale price: By remedying the violation, you can increase the value of the property and potentially sell it for a higher price.
• Better marketability: A property with no code violations is often more marketable and attractive to potential buyers.
• Avoid future issues: By addressing the violation, you can avoid potential issues that may arise in the future, such as fines or penalties for non-compliance.

Making the decision

Deciding whether to sell “as-is” or remediate the violation on your own is a personal decision that depends on several factors, including the severity of the violation, your budget, and your timeline for selling the property. It is important to weigh the benefits of both approaches and make an informed decision based on your specific situation.

Deciding whether to sell a property “as-is” or remediate the violation on your own is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. By weighing the benefits of both approaches and making an informed decision, you can sell your property with confidence and avoid potential issues down the line.

Step 4: Select A Buyer

Choosing the right buyer is crucial when it comes to selling your house in Lake Worth, especially when there is a violation involved. Here are some key factors to consider before selecting a buyer:

Vet the Buyer’s Qualifications

Make sure to thoroughly evaluate the buyer’s qualifications before accepting an offer. A high offer is not the only important factor to consider. It is essential to review the terms of the offer, as well as the buyer’s financial and professional background.

Pay Attention to Contract Terms

When evaluating offers, it is important to pay attention to the contract terms. The following are some key factors to consider:

• Escrow Deposit: This is a sum of money paid by the buyer to demonstrate their interest in completing the transaction. It is typically several percentage points of the offer price and is held by a neutral attorney or broker.
• Inspection Period: This is the period of time for the buyer to inspect the premises and cancel the contract due to any issues found at the property.
• Closing Date: Make sure to schedule the closing in the near future, especially if there are ongoing fines or an upcoming auction.
• Financing Contingency: This allows a buyer to back out at the last minute if they are unable to raise the money to complete the sale.

Consider Experience Rehabbing Property

It is important to consider if the buyer has experience rehabbing a property, especially if the house has a violation. Check if they have purchased a “fixer-upper” before and if they have a history with such properties.

Verify Cash Proof of Funds

Anyone can write an offer amount in a contract, but it does not mean they can get the money to you. Ask for a bank statement or proof of funds showing the cash.

Check Testimonials and Reviews

Check if the buyer has online testimonials and social media reviews. Past experiences can be the best predictor of future outcomes.

BBB Accreditation

Better Business Bureau accreditation is a significant factor to consider when selecting a buyer. The BBB reviews the company’s online and corporate history before approving, making it the gold standard for a company willing to put its reputation on the line.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find a reliable buyer for your house in Lake Worth, whether you decide to sell “as-is” or remediate the violation on your own.

The “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) approach

In this approach, owners choose to sell without the help of a realtor and avoid the traditional process of listing the house on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The main benefits of an FSBO sale are the potential savings on realtor commissions, greater control over the sale process, and the possibility of a faster sale. However, there are also downsides to consider such as less public exposure and a potentially smaller pool of interested buyers.

Step 5: Close on the Property

Selling a house with a code violation is a stressful process, but closing on the property is the final step to completing the sale. In this step, the seller receives the cash and the ownership of the property transferred to the buyer. Here’s what you need to know about closing a house with a violation.

Closing Walkthrough

Before the closing, the buyer is entitled to one last inspection of the property to ensure that it’s in the same condition as when they entered the contract to purchase it. This inspection protects the buyer from any last-minute issues that may have occurred since the initial inspection.

HUD-1 Statement

The HUD-1 Settlement Statement is a standard government form used by closing agents to list all charges and monetary transfers at closing. A draft of this statement is usually circulated prior to the closing documents being signed. It’s essential to review the draft HUD statement to understand what transfers will be made at closing.

Clean-Out

Sellers are typically expected to remove all “personal property” from the property before closing unless negotiated otherwise. While small items are generally not a big deal, larger items such as inoperable vehicles, boats, or furniture, may be costly to remove. It’s important to discuss with the buyer what will remain on the property and what will be removed before closing.

Closing on a house with a code violation can be overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can ease some of the stress. By following these tips, you can ensure that the closing process goes smoothly and that you receive the cash you’re owed. Remember, this is the final step in the selling process – you’re almost there!