What questions should I ask when going to look at condos to buy?

Question

My fiances mom (real estate agent) is going to show us about 5 condos on Sunday.

They're all in the condo complex that we want to live in (the only place in our price range, in a great neighboorhood, pool/tennis court, I spoke with the reccords department in this town and the officer said its generally a quiet area). I know several people that have lived in this place, friends and family! Everyone has loved they're experience.

When we go to look at the place, what kind of questions are important to ask? Things that we might not even think to ask. (We know we're getting a list of the condo guidelines, what we can/cant do etc..)

Answer 1

HOA fees, Smoke-free and if not, find out which units have smokers (if you care), talk to actual tenants about noise problems, do a walk around the whole property, drive by at night, how much is in reserves, how many units (less is better) and finally review the CC&Rs before you put an offer on the unit.

Answer 2

Gangs? Roches? Rats? s*x-ofenders?

Answer 3

how much are the monthly association fees?

how much parking do we have and are they reserved spots

can I plant my own flowers around my unit or does that have to be approved.

What all is covered in the association fees

Can they make adjustments and if so how often and what is the max the increse can be

Answer 4

well...if your fiancees mom is showing the condos...i'd trust her that she would know a bit about the places she is showing you...ask about association fees....that is the one reason i WILL NOT buy a condo...their rules are just ridiculas...and the fees are outragous! so that'd be my #1 questions...ask about Pets...if you plan on having any...some condos dont let you have a dog bigger then 30 lbs or 50 lbs....ask about whats included in the fees...do you get a parking space? laundry? lanscaping? is heating gas included is the building smokers or non smokers...are there children? how is the crime rate? make sure you see the neighbors...I hated mine..they were awful people...lol...

hope this helps you a little....good luck with your search!

Answer 5

I would say

-look at the size of condos

-Are you going to have children soon?

-Is it close to Work?

-nice Neiborhood

-Well taken care of from previous owners

-Is it in your price range

-is there any unfinished parts to it

-hope this helps you and Good Luck

Answer 6

I suspect if your fiance's mom cares for the two of you, she will bring up most of the important stuff.

One thing you should consider though is a home inspection before signing anything.  You don't want to get stuck with a crappy, financially draining condo.

Good luck and have fun!

Maybe others have more suggestions for ya.