‘Unacceptable’: Seniors fear losing homes over shock $7m bill

Homeowners in an affluent California beachside community say they’re being hit with a financial nightmare after their homeowners association demanded more than $7 million for emergency roof works, with some fearing they could be forced to sell if they can’t pay. Residents at the 198-home Vilamoura condominium complex in San Clemente have each been ordered to hand over $36,500 for what the Homeowners Association says is an urgent roof replacement program, bringing the total bill to just under $7.2 million. The demand has sparked outrage across the complex, with owners disputing whether the works meet the threshold of an emergency and questioning whether the board had the legal authority to impose the charge without a vote. MORE NEWS Chinese student given $18m to buy Aus properties 49yo’s no regrets, rips up neighbour’s home Census dodgers risk $364 daily fine Adding to the pressure, residents say they’ve been given only a month to find the money. According to a GoFundMe set up by the community, about 60 per cent of Vilamoura residents are seniors, raising concerns about how many will be able to absorb the sudden cost. Resident Megan Blanda told ABC7 the advice from the HOA to strugg...