War over windows: Charlotte homeowner wins 5-year fight with HOA, gets $75K settlement

Sherry Loeffler won a rare legal settlement against her HOA in Lake Wylie, ending a five-year dispute over vinyl windows installed in her townhome. Despite receiving $75,000 and keeping her windows, the ordeal cost her financially and emotionally. The HOA fined her nearly $12,000, placed a lien on her house, and threatened foreclosure, prompting Loeffler to sue.

The case highlights growing tensions between homeowners and HOAs in North Carolina, where foreclosure actions by HOAs have increased. Loeffler’s victory included canceled fines and legal fee reimbursements, but she endured significant stress and financial hardship. She advises homeowners to document everything when dealing with HOAs.

The HOA board, citing complaints about property values and mismatched windows, expressed frustration over the drawn-out dispute but aims to move on. Loeffler, disillusioned by the experience, plans to relocate to a community without an HOA.

Source: The Charlotte Observer