Essential Things to Look for When Viewing a Condo for the First Time

Moving into a new space can be exciting—however, it’s important not to let that excitement overshadow important details about the property. A place that appeared perfect might end up being a major headache once you move in.

Ready to purchase your first property? You may be considering a condo, which offers a few distinct advantages for first-time home buyers:

• Condominiums usually require less maintenance than houses

• They’re typically more affordable than houses

• You may have access to amenities like a gym, pool, and/or barbeque area

Investing in a property is a major expense—you want to be sure that you’re spending your money wisely. When it comes to a condo, it’s a bit different than searching for a house or apartment. Here’s a checklist of what to look for at your next viewing:

 

Functional Appliances

You rely on your fridge, stove, and microwave every day. If these appliances are faulty, it will be a regular inconvenience in your life. 

The stainless steel washing machine might look great from a distance, but how does it actually perform? Be on the lookout for common appliance problems, like a fridge that doesn’t stay properly cold, or a faulty dryer. 

 

A Priority List

When you’re thinking of buying a condo, start with a list of the features that are most important to you. That way, you won’t end up compromising for a place that lacks what you need the most.

You might require amenities like:

• A gym

• Air conditioning

• A smoke-free building

• A parking spot or an indoor bike rack

• A balcony

It’s easy to fall for a condo that appears to be perfect, and forget that you also need features like a building that’s relatively close to your work. Even if it’s a pet-friendly building, inquire about specific restrictions—you may be required to carry your dog in common areas, which isn’t feasible for larger breeds.

 

Noise-proofing

How noisy are your neighbours? If you live beside a young family or a pair of loud pets, you’ll notice pretty quickly how thin your walls are. Ask the building manager whether the walls are made from drywall only (which may lead to a noisy suite), or constructed from concrete (which offers more sound insulation).

It’s difficult to tell how noise-proofed a suite is before you move in. To get a clearer idea, you can set up a viewing during busy hours, like around dinnertime.

 

The HVAC System

Even the most beautiful condo will feel uninhabitable without proper heating and cooling. You rely on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable–without it, you’ll be itching to move again in no time.

Before purchasing a condo, have the AC inspected. You may be able to ask the property manager about what the average power bill is in the place. Depending on the totals, it could reveal if the HVAC system is inefficient or faulty.

 

Condo Fees

If you find a deal that seems too good to be true, it just might be—have you checked what the condo fees are? With any condo that you purchase, you’ll need to pay a monthly fee that goes toward maintaining the building. Be sure to inquire about what the condo fees are before you move in!

 

Renovation Restrictions

Planning to purchase a worn-down condo and fix it up yourself? You’ll need to factor in the restrictions that may be in place for that particular building. 

One of the main reasons renters decide to buy a property is that it gives them the freedom to change it. When you sign a lease with a landlord, you’re usually forbidden from altering the space in any way—even putting nails in the walls counts as damage.

But in a condo, there may be limitations about what you can and cannot change about the suite. For example, painting is generally acceptable, but knocking down a wall might be against the rules.

 

Positive Online Reviews

You’ve found a building that has everything you need. What’s the next step?

We recommend doing a bit of research about the building itself before you finalize the deal. Online reviews can be eye-opening and may bring your attention to issues like poor management, frequent condo fee increases, or pest problems. Check out what people are saying online about the property manager and building before your heart is set on a suite.

 

Viewing a condo can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you find one that you fancy. But when you’re checking out a condominium, be sure to look out for essential qualities like important amenities, functional appliances, and affordable condo fees. If you do the proper research, you’ll definitely thank yourself for it.