A Hollywood condo owner says she could lose her home over nearly $18,000 in special assessments, and her case highlights a growing squeeze on older homeowners across South Florida.
Janor Farthing, who lives in the Carriage Hills community in West Hollywood, owes the condo association that amount while her 50-year-old building goes through extensive, required renovations. Farthing, who has diabetes, PTSD and an autoimmune disease, said the stress has worn her down. She has considered giving up her dog, her only companion, and said she fears ending up in her car.
CBS Miami first reported her situation in February, after a friend, Katrina Vought, asked for help. Over several months, reporters contacted city, county, state and federal officials on Farthing’s behalf and found few programs available.
Broward’s United Way stepped in with close to $10,000 for Farthing and helped 20 other homeowners manage their debt. Rebecca McGuire, the group’s vice president of housing, said the $200,000 grant was a one-time payment for HOA and tax costs, and she does not know whether it will be renewed. She said even new funding would not solve the problem and called on lawmakers to act.
Farthing answered a letter from the association’s attorney that threatened foreclosure. She is waiting for a court date, when a judge will decide whether to give her more time to pay. Her neighbors are still looking for a long-term solution.
