Older Americans are often advised to swap standalone homes for condos in retirement. Condos can be easier to maintain, since an HOA fee commonly manages common areas. And they tend to be more affordable, too, which can help free up some cash in retirement.  The problem, though, is that HOA dues aren’t set in stone. And these communities can be subject to special assessments for projects like replacing a roof, tennis court, or pool that result in significantly higher costs from one year to the next.    Read the article…………………………….