by Adriana Noton


People often chose condos because they can not afford family housing, or do not want to live in something with high maintenance requirements. Purchasing a condo means the buyer agrees to own everything with walls of the dwelling place. Everything outside the condo like the exterior, land, roads and common areas are owned by the condominium association. Anything outside of the property is shared space. Condominiums are popular, but reviewing a few pros and cons can help determine if it is the right place to live.

Condominiums are usually conveniently located in places like downtown locations, or within walking distance of buses, restaurants, shopping, schools, churches and medical facilities. It also gives a sense of security to many people who feel safer having close neighbors. This is especially true when it is time to travel or go on vacation. Often time neighbors will what another neighbor's property while they are away for a short period of time. Some condos also have security guards, buzzers and gates with security codes.

Another perk for condo living is it is low maintenance. There is someone available to fix in home repairs, like plumbing. And someone else takes care of yard work, even shoveling snow. The housing is affordable and varies in price range. It is a number one pick for some singles and first-time buyers that are not ready for or can not afford a house.

Amenities are a good sell point for condos. Most places offer many types of amenities like a gym, pool, play ground, computer lab or tennis court. Another perk is the condominium association. Each owner is a part of this association. The association has an elected board that is responsible for repairs and maintenance issues, along with enforcing policies or bylaws. They handles disputes between neighbors as well.

There are a few cons to condominium living. The unite owner never owns the land underneath them or around them. They will only own the space between the walls of their condo. Common areas are shared with others in the neighborhood. There is little storage space and bedroom do not typically exceed 3 per condo. The space is not too large either. Sometimes the rooms and restrooms are small. Consider how much space is needed in the home. Consider how much time will be spent in each room.

There is not much privacy. Because neighbors share walls, sometimes what is going on in the next condo can be heard. There are also fees that must be paid monthly. This covers landscaping and repairs. At times their might be an assessment fee to cover larger job repairs. At times fees might rise to maintain amenities.

If moving from a home to a condo, the association might come across as weak. It is made up of home owners not property-management professionals. At times they have been known to be inefficient. In addition, renovations of a personal unit might need the approval of the association.

To really know if this is the right choice, visit the neighborhood and talk with other owners. Explore what is liked and disliked about the community. Learn the rules and policies. Then put all the information together to make an informed decision.




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