Western Auto Lofts

[mykn]

I got clarification on the sign: they plan to replace the bulbs with LEDs, the arrow outline and clear red outline of the letters will remain neon.

It is not uncommon for condo developers to underestimate maintenance costs in an effort to keep HOA fees low to attract buyers. I've seen this happen many times. If you're going to buy a condo, read the decs and by-laws and compare things like fees to similar buildings that are functioning properly. They are certainly not all the same.

This is very, very true.

[longviewmo]

This showed up on reddit too recently. According to the posts there, the scaffolding isn't OSHA compliant or something.

[aknowledgeableperson]

What are the current HOA dues? And what would be the projected fees?

[wahoowa]

have seen a few of these while we've been mildly condo shopping lately. it sounds like maybe the financials aren't in the best shape judging solely from comments from people in various places online from 2016-2019. that's a pure guess on my part, no independent confirmation. i'm not particularly surprised to see that their HOA fees are higher per unit because it's spread out across three old buildings. plus, copaken is the property manager, and they can't be cheap.

anyway i'm here to ask the real important question: does anyone know whether there's some bizarre HOA bylaw or rule that says everyone has to keep those god awful fireplaces in these units?

[FangKC]

I recall hearing that the cost of maintaining and lighting the historic neon roof sign adds to costs as well. That's why I don't think the sign is on all the time.

[taxi]

The sign was converted to LED, I think.

[Elrod]

^Yes, the sign was converted to LED. See the end of this article:

https://www.kansascity.com/news/your-kc ... 15102.html

[smh]

have seen a few of these while we've been mildly condo shopping lately. it sounds like maybe the financials aren't in the best shape judging solely from comments from people in various places online from 2016-2019. that's a pure guess on my part, no independent confirmation. i'm not particularly surprised to see that their HOA fees are higher per unit because it's spread out across three old buildings. plus, copaken is the property manager, and they can't be cheap.

anyway i'm here to ask the real important question: does anyone know whether there's some bizarre HOA bylaw or rule that says everyone has to keep those god awful fireplaces in these units?

If you're shopping, be sure to ask for a copy of the financials, the declarations, and bylaws. They'll reveal all. That said, I can't imagine you'd be required to keep the fireplace...not as if it is part of the original building or something. I have heard that the financials have improved in the last few years, but couldn't swear to it.

[KCPowercat]

reserve study too