May 20, 2023 – Partner, Ian J. Brandt of Davidoff Hutcher & Citron’s Real Estate Law practice was interviewed by the Financial Times for their article “Why can’t I paint my door yellow? The psychology of community décor diktats” to discuss how neighborhoods are determining what alterations are appropriate for people to make to their homes.

Brandt shared a key 1997 New York City court case, Vacca vs Board of Managers, Primrose Lane, to demonstrate some of the limitations that boards and HOAs may face when enforcing certain cosmetic rules.

In that case, residents placed a religious statue outside their homes. However, Brandt, who often represents clients in the enforcement of house rules, noted that the board challenging those residents did not have sufficient standing because the statues had been placed six years prior to any actions taken.

To read the full article, click here.