In a follow-up to my last post about Condo Management Companies over-charging for a set of (unprinted) documents; I want to write about another "Junk Fee".

We often accuse Lenders and Title Attorneys in having Junk Fees they charge to Buyers and Sellers.  However condo associations and management companies are also doing this - and some of them are getting out of control!

Many condos; usually Mid and High-Rise buildings; charge Buyers and Sellers Move-In or Move-Out fees. 

What does this fee pay for?    Typically the building will reserve an elevator for your use during your move-in.  They often put up protective covers in the elevator to protect the walls from being banged or scratched by furniture.  What else do they do???  Well that's about it.  In other words... "Not Much".

How much is this fee?  Well many buildings I see have a fee of $100-$150.  OK - so that should cover the maintenance supervisor or building manager's pay to put up and take down the protective coverings in the elevator.  Maybe it will help cover some extra wear and tear on the carpet; or a ding or two in the hallway walls.

However, how about a Move-In fee of $300?   I have seen a few of these in the past several months.  $300?  For what exactly?  Does the Building Super help carry your stuff for you?  Does he unpack boxes?  Do they repaint the hall after you move in?

This is another example of a fee which is a profit center for the condo association.  Buyers have little choice in paying these fees.  I suppose they could not buy because of this; but how often would that happen?

Junk Fee.

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