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HB 1221

Common Ownership Communities - Online Publication of Resale Disclosures

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jessica Feldmark

Maryland bill requires homeowners associations to publish resale disclosure documents online, improving buyer access to community financial records and rules before purchase.

Hearing 2/28 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1221

Legislative bill overview

HB 1221 requires common ownership communities (HOAs, condominiums, cooperatives) in Maryland to publish resale disclosure documents online and make them readily accessible to prospective buyers. The bill streamlines the process for obtaining these legally-required disclosures, which typically include financial records, governing documents, and community rules that buyers need to evaluate before purchasing property.

Why is this important

Resale disclosures are critical for informed purchasing decisions but have traditionally required in-person requests or mail delays, creating friction in real estate transactions. By mandating online availability, the bill aims to increase transparency, reduce transaction timelines, and protect consumer interests in a market where HOA fees and restrictions significantly impact property value and ownership experience.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden and costs: HOAs, particularly smaller ones with limited budgets and IT capacity, may face substantial expenses creating and maintaining secure online portals for sensitive financial and legal documents
  • Privacy and cybersecurity concerns: Posting detailed financial records, membership lists, and community information online raises questions about data security, identity theft risks, and protection of resident personal information
  • Unfunded mandate: The bill may lack state funding mechanisms to help communities comply, potentially increasing HOA fees passed to residents to cover compliance costs
  • Competitive advantage concerns: Real estate professionals may worry about reduced demand for their disclosure research and delivery services

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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