When you’re buying a condo, be sure to consider the space and amenities that come with it. It would help if you also thought about how well your lifestyle will fit into the building’s culture. Finally, make sure you’re ready for any potential problems in advance, so they don’t turn into major headaches later down the line.
Are you thinking about buying a condo? If so, there are some things to keep in mind before making an offer. For example, it’s essential to know what type of building you’ll be living in – whether it’s luxury or not-so-luxury can make a big difference when deciding if this is right for you.
The following points will help you decide on whether the condo you’re looking at is right for you or not:
1. Location
Location is one of the most important factors to consider. For a condo, this could mean considering its distance from workplaces, schools, and other amenities. It would also be best if you could find a condo located near shopping malls, hospitals, and places where your friends may live! If you’re into social events or sports activities, opt for a condo near these places for convenience. The Jovell will help you find the best condos that fit the location and your requirements.Location is one of the most important factors to consider. For a condo, this could mean considering its distance from workplaces, schools, and other amenities. It would also be best if you could find a condo located near shopping malls, hospitals, and places where your friends may live! If you’re into social events or sports activities, opt for a condo near these places for convenience.
2. Size
The size of the condo, number of rooms, and bathrooms are essential to consider as you will be living in a place and would expect the house to provide the comfort of space and privacy for each of you. The area offered by the condo is an essential factor to consider. It refers to how big each unit in the building is and how much outdoor and common-area space would be available. If you need a lot of outdoor or common-area living space, opt for a condo with plenty of green space. A studio or one-bedroom may not provide sufficient enough space for you to raise a family, while a penthouse might be too large for someone living alone on a budget. Be sure to think about everything you would want out of your condo before deciding, so you know whether or not it will be a good fit.
3. Age and Condition of the Building
It is also essential to consider the lifestyle and culture of the building itself. It would mean looking at demographics such as age, occupation, and income levels to determine how much you would fit in. For example, an older adult may not enjoy living in a place filled with rowdy students, and a single woman may not be happy in a building mostly filled with families. Check the condo’s history to make sure it has a good track record.
4. Correct Your Past
Think about any possible problems with the condo before purchasing one. For example, if you’re someone who cannot go without a gym membership for long periods, then avoid condominiums that do not have a fitness center on-site or as part of the building. Check the condo’s history to make sure it has a good track record. Find out if there are any building or maintenance issues. Condo boards have to keep proper records of any expenses and significant changes. You can ask them for copies of their budgets, financial statements, and minutes from meetings where they discuss repairs or money problems. Finally, be aware of any potential buyer’s remorse before making a final decision! It can happen when we buy anything new. Be prepared, so it doesn’t come as such a shock later down the line.
5. Lifestyle Fit
The lifestyle that would fit into your condo’s culture. If you have an active lifestyle, you may want to consider condos within walking distance of work or shops so you can avoid taking public transit every day. Some buildings might only come with one parking spot for every unit sold if there are no outside parking stalls, so you’ll need to purchase one or pay for parking if public areas are unavailable. Be sure to consider the space and amenities that come with your condo when looking at the lifestyle fit of the building. Generally, most condos share similar areas like a lobby, swimming pool, or fitness center. However, some facilities may have more unique amenities, like a theater or library. So, be sure you’re ready for any potential problems before they turn into major headaches later on. If your building’s amenities include an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center, think about how often you would use these and whether they would be worth the added premium.
6. Maintenance
Maintenance fees and how they will affect your budget for living there. Maintenance fees include heat, hydro, and water. If you live in an older building, it might not be equipped to handle energy costs. This fee could range between $0 and $500 per month depending on the amenities offered by your building – usually more if there’s an indoor pool or hot tub, for example.
7. Condo Fees
Many condos charge a monthly fee of $500 – $1500 that covers heat, water, and your general upkeep. Keep in mind that some buildings include utilities and cable at this price. Feel free to ask your realtor or lawyer if that’s what they recommend for your situation. Your agent may also be able to refer you to a lawyer who specializes in condo purchases. You must also look into the Condo association’s financial stability and history with problems like plumbing or roofing issues. Find out if any building or maintenance issues need to be addressed. Ask yourself how often you plan on using every amenity offered by your prospective home – do they fit your needs, budget, and schedule well enough for this decision to feel suitable for your long-term
8. Neighbourhood
Think about what type of neighbours would be best for your situation – people who are social but not too noisy, quiet but friendly, etc.? Consider whether or not your lifestyle will mesh with other residents of the building. Determine if you’re comfortable with how much noise comes from outside and inside the building
9. Cost of Living
One of the most important things you should do before buying is to find out how much money it will take for all of your closing costs. These include but are not limited to title insurance, mortgage insurance, land transfer tax/property tax, legal fees (including lawyers’ disbursements), surveyor’s fee, appraisal fee, home inspection fees, etc. In Ontario, this could add up to over 10% of the purchase price!
Conclusion
With condos everywhere to look and buy, you are bound to be confused and bombarded with choices. It would help if you did not get overwhelmed but instead decide when you find the condo that fits your needs and requirements.
