I am often amazed by the ignorance/arrogance of some owners in an HOA, condo or co-op building when it comes to the maintenance and repairs of a building they are an owner in. Not unlike many these days, some people truly believe a roof repair should not be their financial responsibility, that it's something "the other's" have to pay for.

Yes, HOA/condo/co-op owners pay monthly maintenance fees to cover the maintenance of multiple items and often some of that is devoted to building up a reserve fund. Smarter entities understand that when major capital improvements occur, it's best to assess so that this cost can be assigned to the cost basis of individual owners. A little bit of research, understanding and knowledge can be very helpful in navigating these stressful moments, the kind of things not taught at most schools.

In a world fraught with affordability issues at varying wealth levels, not just the poor, it is understandable that some do not wish to pay any "extra". When you own a home and the roof leaks, you call a roofer, get the repair taken care of and pay the bill. This is never truly enjoyable but it's an essential part of any real estate. All real estate is exposed 24/7 to the elements and usage. All materials and mechanicals have a shelf life, most don't last forever. Most require regular maintenance and repairs. I think we all know this all too well.

What amazes me is that too many people believe these realities are the responsibility of 'the other', be it a landlord, condo or HOA board, or some other magical entity. In an environment of 2% annual inflation, everything costs more each year, much more over a decade. Double that rate of inflation, and the math becomes more daunting.

No, the 'other' will not pick up the tab. Everything has a price that we all pay for sooner or later. And usually, the sooner you pay for it, the cheaper it is!