Home Owners Association (HOA) and Maintenance and Tax (M.T) FAQ
From Westgate Wiki
Why are my HOA fees due on January 2nd?
The Homeowners’ Association has set January 2nd of each year as the due date for collecting the fees which cover the maintenance costs and real estate taxes for the calendar year. You may see the amount due on line in early fall under the account manager link. Paper bills are mailed in the fall. Since the amount due is on line, you are expected to pay by the due date even though you may not have received the paper bill. For your convenience, you may either sign up for an automatic debit on a credit card or pay on line. You may also pay over the telephone by calling 1-800-925-9999 or 407-355-1105.
Why do the HOA fees go up each year?
The maintenance budget covers the Resort staff wages, their supplies, utilities, administrative costs such as reservations and reserves for projects like furniture replacement. The taxes are established by the county government where the Resort is located. Westgate Resorts works hard to keep the costs as low as possible for all of our owners.
Why does the budget include "Bad Debt" as part of the payment?
The only source of revenue for the Owners' Association is the billing of HOA fees. Each year the costs to operate the resort are estimated and put into a budget format. If 100% of the owners pay on time, the Association will have the funds to operate the resort as planned. Historically not all of the owners will pay their maintenance timely or at all. This forces us to budget for such owners as bad debt. These extra funds are necessary for the HOA to pay for operational expenses. Our Account Services department works on collecting from delinquent owners. We charge them a penalty and interest for being late. We can also foreclose on their units if they do not pay.
Why do I have to pay the HOA fees if I do not use my week?
The Homeowners’ Association requires all owners to pay their share of the fees necessary to operate the Resort. You have the choice to use your week up to two years later by having your week placed with an exchange company or held with Westgate Resorts. There are fees when using either of these options, but you do not lose your vacation time! You must contact us as soon as possible when you are unable to use your week in the year.
Why do I have to pay the HOA fees before you will place my week with the exchange company?
Placing a week with an exchange company is considered usage. Before a week can be used, the fees must be paid to the Association. You may get an estimated amount if you are requesting the placement up to two years in advance. Early placement allows you to make the most of your exchange company in planning a memorable vacation. You will be responsible for any difference when the actual budget is decided. Overpayments will apply to the next year’s fees. Call us for more information at 1-800-925-9999 or 407-355-1105.I
