Cronin, Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.Cronin, Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.2026-07-17T13:27:51Zhttps://www.cbzlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203492/2023/04/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[Can a condo association prohibit pets?]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468982026-07-17T13:27:51Z2026-07-17T13:27:51ZYes, a condo association, just like an HOA, may have restrictions regarding pets. The CC&R documentation that a person signs when they purchase the condo should inform them of these restrictions.
They can be different from case to case. For instance, some condos may ban pets entirely, or they may focus on a certain type of pet, such as banning dogs. In other cases, certain breeds of dogs may be prohibited, but others may be allowed. In still other situations, there may be size or weight restrictions. So while owning a dog would be allowed in general, it may only be permitted if it is a relatively small animal that fits within these guidelines.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes, there are sometimes exceptions, or a person may be able to get a variance. This allows them to break the standing rules that would apply to other condo owners.One example could be if someone has a disability and has a service animal. It may be necessary for their health and well-being to live with the service animal, which is viewed much differently than someone who simply wants to own a pet for companionship.Naturally, this can sometimes lead to conflict. A person may claim that they need a service animal or an emotional support animal, while the condo association classifies the animal as a pet and says that it is prohibited.In cases like this, it is very important for the parties involved to understand exactly what documentation is on file, how the rules and regulations apply and what legal steps they can take to navigate a dispute.
]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[5 important inclusions for New Hampshire condo vendor contracts]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468902026-07-01T10:12:45Z2026-07-06T10:11:52Z1. Compliance with state rules
Under the New Hampshire Condominium Act (NH RSA 356-B), your board has strict fiduciary duties regarding common area maintenance, rule enforcement and financial management.
Additionally, you have to follow the condo’s governing documents and state law when entering contracts or handling disputes. If a vendor agreement goes beyond the board’s authority or conflicts with state law, it may not be valid.
2. Clearly defined scope of work
Vague contract terms can cause confusion and lead to disputes. To keep everyone on the same page, the agreement should clearly state the following:
Vendor’s plans and project deliverables
Total duration and timeline of the work
Complete materials list
The contract should also clearly describe the scope of work so both sides know exactly what is included. Having transparent and precise language can help protect your association and make it easier to hold the vendor accountable if the work is delayed or incomplete.
3. Direct insurance verification
Even if a vendor claims to be insured, it is best not to just take their word for it. You and your board members can require the seller to provide a current Certificate of Insurance (COI) named directly to the association. The COI can help verify that the vendor carries sufficient general liability, workers' compensation and umbrella coverage for the project's scale.
4. Explicit hold harmless provisions
If the contract terms state that the condominium association absorbs all the liability during an accident, it is best to avoid signing it. That kind of arrangement can leave the unit owners exposed to costs and claims that should be the vendor’s responsibility. Having a strong indemnification clause can prevent the vendor from holding your board accountable for losses caused by their own negligence, employees or subcontractors.
5. Proper pathways for termination
A termination for cause provision lets the board end the contract right away if the vendor fails to meet the agreed standards. Additionally, a termination for convenience clause allows the association to cancel the contract with 30 days’ notice, even without a breach. Both stipulations can give the condominium board flexibility to stop the service if needed or switch vendors.
Crucial steps to take before signing
Taking the time to ensure a vendor contract protects your association from unnecessary liabilities can help save money for your community. A lawyer can help review the agreement terms to help safeguard the neighborhood from costly legal blind spots.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[Are lenders liable for rejecting pre-approved buyers?]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468952026-06-30T23:40:04Z2026-06-30T23:40:04ZPre-approval is not the same as approval
A pre-approval letter is not a binding financial commitment. It is simply an official notice that a person or couple can theoretically qualify for a specific amount of mortgage financing. It helps buyers estimate their buying power and predict their monthly budget. It is not a promise of financing, and lenders can easily withdraw pre-approval when financial circumstances change.
Job loss, the excessive use of credit and other complications can justify a lender revoking pre-approval and refusing to finance a mortgage. In most cases, buyers have no recourse in that situation. If they do not have the right provisions in the offer they initially submitted, they are theoretically at risk of losing their earnest money, in addition to becoming unable to complete the transaction.
Working with a real estate attorney to include the right details in an offer or purchase agreement can reduce the risk of a financing issue causing lost funds and other buying setbacks. A lawyer can help people understand pre-approval, financing roadblocks and the language in dense real estate contracts that may otherwise leave them more exposed than they realize.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[2 concerns that may inspire boundary disputes]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468892026-06-18T21:17:17Z2026-06-18T21:17:17Zcommon causes of these disputes?
Historical deeds
Due to a lack of formal surveying, many cases of boundary disputes involve older deeds. Some deeds dating back to the 1600s are still active and legally binding in New Hampshire. These deeds heavily relied on the metes and bounds system – using natural and temporary landmarks to state property lines.
Large trees, rivers, large boulders and stone walls, among other natural and artificial landmarks, were used as markers. These are vague markers, as they shift, disappear or die over time. A large oak tree can die, a river can change course, a stone wall can crumble and so forth.
Consequently, the exact boundary of a property may be left up to interpretation. Modern surveyors may disagree on the boundary of a property when they rely on different historical reference points. Neighbors may also interpret a vague historical deed differently to maximize their own land use.
Encroachments
Boundary disputes can occur when a neighbor unintentionally or deliberately builds a structure that extends across the legal property line. For example, a fence, garage, deck, garden, shed, footpath or driveway. This is frequently discovered when a property has a new owner, as they will get a boundary marking, or when an owner wants to make improvements on their property.
It’s crucial to solve an encroachment issue earlier. New Hampshire has a law that allows a property owner to legally claim ownership of a section of their neighbor’s land if they show adverse, continuous, exclusive and uninterrupted use of the land for 20 years (adverse possession).
Boundary disputes can lead to costly effects. It’s vital to take the appropriate steps early to protect your ownership rights. Seeking legal guidance is generally wise as a result.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[5 collection strategies for HOA assessment enforcement in condos]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468872026-06-11T10:20:50Z2026-06-16T10:20:08ZSend written late notices early
Start with clear communication. Send a written reminder when an assessment is late. The notice should state the total amount due, any late fees and deadline for payment. New Hampshire law requires proper notification before your board can take any legal action. Early intervention often helps resolve issues before they escalate.
Apply interest charges properly
Your association can charge interest on unpaid assessments if your governing documents allow it. However, state law sets specific limits on these rates. While your internal bylaws can guide standard late fees, statutory law completely controls interest rates once collections progress to formal legal enforcement. This means any interest applied to judgment liens must strictly reflect the state’s maximum lawful rate. Make sure you apply these interest charges consistently across all delinquent accounts.
File a lien when necessary
A lien protects your association's financial interests. Under state law, you can file a lien against a unit for unpaid assessments. However, timing matters. Your association must file the lien within six months of the delinquency. The lien attaches to the property but does not remain indefinitely.
It will expire unless your board initiates a lawsuit to enforce it within six years of the recording date. You must record the lien with the county registry of deeds. This step creates a legal claim that can affect the owner's ability to sell or refinance.
Establish written payment plans
A payment plan can help owners with temporary financial challenges. In such cases, your board can set payment amounts and deadlines to help the owner catch up on their back dues. Make sure you get the agreement in writing. This can help reduce legal costs while recovering funds.
Maintain detailed records
Organized records can help your board track delinquencies. This can also show compliance with New Hampshire law. Keep records of all communications, payment histories and enforcement actions. Your files should include dates, amounts and copies of notices sent. Good recordkeeping also provides clarity if disputes arise.
Strengthening your collection process
Collection enforcement is never easy for any association. These strategies can help you protect your community while treating all homeowners fairly. Every situation is unique, and thoughtful enforcement can preserve positive relationships within the community.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[Could a vacant office building become a new condo facility?]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468862026-06-04T10:37:27Z2026-06-04T10:37:27ZWhat issues do developers face?
When converting an existing structure from a business facility to a residential property, there are many challenges ahead. First and foremost, the zoning for the property likely does not align with the intended residential use. Securing a variance or rezoning the property may be necessary before any development occurs.
Next, developers must ensure that the infrastructure within the building aligns with code requirements for residential properties. A higher density of outlets per square foot may be necessary. The condominium developer may need to install new HVAC systems or include heating and cooling costs in condominium fees.
Then there are egress and accessibility concerns to address. There are countless minor challenges that can delay condominium development projects or diminish the profit margins for the developing business.
Support from the earliest stages of redevelopment of an existing facility can be as important as proper support before purchasing unimproved land for development. Companies need help with due diligence, zoning issues and ensuring the property can meet the relevant code requirements. Partnering with a law firm that has experienced handling condominium development and code compliance can increase the chances of a successful project.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[Do you need loan approval to make an offer on a house?]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468852026-05-26T14:51:15Z2026-05-26T14:51:15ZNo, there is no legal requirement for you to have final approval on a loan before making an offer to purchase real estate. It can certainly strengthen your position if you do, but it is not necessary, and most buyers do not take this step before submitting an offer.
Instead, two other types of approval may be used.
Prequalification for a loan
In some cases, buyers will simply report their own income levels or debt levels to a lender, and they can receive prequalification based on the information they provide. This may give them an estimated price range.If someone is looking to buy a home and has prequalification for up to $300,000, for example, it helps them know what homes to focus on during their search.
Preapproval for a mortgage
Another option is to get preapproval from a lender. This is a more detailed process in which the lender conducts a deeper review and requires more paperwork. The buyer is not just claiming to earn a certain amount, but must provide documentation and proof of their financial situation.Preapproval letters are very common with real estate purchase offers. They generally create a stronger offer because financing is much more likely to be approved than if someone submits an offer without even speaking to a financial institution.
Navigating real estate transactions
Final approval on a mortgage loan will likely not come until much later in the process, perhaps after steps such as the home appraisal and inspections have been completed. Throughout these stages, both buyers and sellers need to understand the legal intricacies involved in a real estate transaction. Legal guidance can often help both parties avoid serious mistakes.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[4 types of properties requiring registration]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468802026-05-11T23:17:54Z2026-05-11T23:17:54ZIn New Hampshire, the Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau requires certain types of properties to be either registered or exempted. An application has to be submitted to request an exemption or appropriately register the property, or it is illegal for that property to be sold.
There are four general types of properties that fall under these regulations.
1. Condominiums
First of all, any condominium of more than 10 units must be registered. A condo will have an individual owner, but it will also have common grounds, facilities, amenities and the requirement that owners pay certain fees in order to live in that community.
2. Cooperatives
Any cooperative that has 10 or more residential units also has to be registered. Under a co-op structure, owners purchase shares, but a certain entity, such as a trust, will generally own the property itself.
3. Timeshares
Regardless of the number of units, a timeshare must be registered. With a timeshare setup, people share ownership, so there is not an individual unit with a specific owner. Instead, they have a right to use that property at certain times. This is often used with vacation properties.
4. Conversions
Finally, some residential rental properties are converted into condos or other types of ownership properties. As with the above, if there are 10 or more units, then they must be registered with the bureau. Conversion is usually to either a condominium or a cooperative.In all these cases, there can be strict penalties for failing to properly register with the Bureau, so condo associations and property owners need to know exactly what obligations they have and what legal steps to take.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[3 HOA rules that condo owners most commonly misunderstand]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468752026-05-01T19:42:33Z2026-05-06T19:41:38ZMoving into your first condo is a fresh start. You get a new home and a new community, but New Hampshire's Condominium Act, RSA 356-B, gives your homeowners association broad authority to enforce its rules. Some of those rules tend to catch new owners off guard, so knowing which ones they are before a problem arises can make your first year in the community go much more smoothly.
Parking spots are not guaranteed for the people who visit you
You might assume your guests can park in any open spot. In many New Hampshire condo communities, that is not the case. Your association has the legal authority under its governing documents to designate, limit or restrict guest parking.Some communities require parking permits for visitors, while others set time limits or will tow a vehicle parked in a restricted area overnight. Reviewing your community's parking rules before your first visitor arrives is far less stressful than responding to a violation notice after the fact.
"Common area" covers more space than most people expect
The term 'common area' sounds simple but under RSA 356-B:3, it includes all property except individual units which is more than most new owners expect. Hallways, stairwells, entryways and even some balconies or patios fall under your association's authority. Storing personal items in these spaces or making changes to them without HOA approval can result in a fine.Your condo declaration also likely separates "limited common areas" from fully shared ones. Reading that section carefully helps you understand where your unit ends and the association's authority begins.
Noise rules do not clock out when quiet hours end
Many new condo owners assume noise rules only apply at night. In many New Hampshire communities, that is not the case. Your HOA can set noise standards for any time of day, and those rules are often stricter than Manchester's local noise ordinance.Daytime sounds, music and foot traffic from upper-floor units can all qualify as violations. Under your association's rules, a neighbor can file a noise complaint at any hour. Asking your HOA for a copy of its noise policy early is a wise first step.
The fine print is your friend
These three rules share a common thread. Your best chance of staying on good terms with your HOA starts with reading the governing documents before a problem arises. New Hampshire condo declarations and association rules can be dense, but legal guidance can help you understand your rights and obligations from the start.]]>On Behalf of Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky P.C.<![CDATA[How due diligence protects real estate investors in New Hampshire]]>https://www.cbzlaw.com/?p=468762026-04-29T05:40:31Z2026-04-29T05:40:31ZA promising property can look like the right opportunity on paper. The price works, the location makes sense and the future use seems profitable. Then the title search, zoning review or financing documents reveal a problem that changes the deal.
For real estate investors, due diligence is the period for asking hard questions before closing. A careful review can uncover risks that affect the property’s value, use and long-term return.
Confirm what the property can legally support
New Hampshire communities use planning and zoning rules to shape how land and buildings may be used. Local planning and zoning boards help guide where and how development can occur within town boundaries.That makes local review an important part of due diligence. Before buying, diligent investors often check whether the property allows the intended use, such as a restaurant, day care, mixed-use building, car dealership or multifamily project. A property may also need site plan approval, a variance, a special exception or another local land use approval before work can begin. These issues often fall under development and zoning review.
Look beyond the purchase price
A profitable deal depends on more than the sale price. Title issues, easements, liens, boundary disputes, unpaid taxes, environmental concerns and lease restrictions can all affect the investment.Investors should also review closing costs and transfer costs. New Hampshire’s real estate transfer tax applies to both the buyer and seller at a combined total rate of $1.50 per $100 of the price or consideration ($0.75 per $100 assessed to each party). In larger commercial deals, that cost can affect cash flow and should not come as a surprise at closing.
Match financing terms to the project
Financing documents can shape the entire investment. Loan terms may limit construction timelines, future transfers, leasing options or additional borrowing. If the deal involves tenants, lenders may also want to review leases, rent rolls, estoppel certificates and insurance obligations.This review matters because the property must support both the investor’s business plan and the lender’s requirements. A deal that works financially at closing can become strained if the loan terms conflict with the project timeline.
A stronger deal starts before closing
Due diligence does not eliminate every risk, but it can reveal problems before they become expensive surprises. For investors, developers and business owners, the goal is simple: understand what you are buying, what limits the property carries and whether the deal still makes sense before signing final documents.]]>