Can we talk about the financial trap of unpermitted renovations?
I purchased a condo where the seller had converted a closet into a half-bath without pulling permits. During the sale, my inspector missed it, but the homeowners association discovered it later. They demanded I restore it or pay for retroactive permits and upgrades, which drained my savings. This taught me to always cross-check renovation claims with city records before closing. Now, I include a clause in contracts requiring permit documentation, and it has prevented two bad deals. If you ignore this, you might face fines or forced demolition. Take the time to verify; it’s a simple step that protects your investment.