By Johanna Pigeon

The Condominium market attracts an array of people at different crossroads of life. It offers affordability to the first time buyer, and a vibrant urban feel for the perpetual “downtowner”. Discover the joy of easy, low-maintenance lifestyle.

When speaking with your bank or mortgage broker, make sure they know you’re considering a condo as they will take into account the monthly maintenance fees in their calculations.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for a condo:

Is a concierge an absolute must or will a security system suffice? The gym, pool, sauna, racket court, yoga room, party/billiard room….which ones will you, in all reality, actually use? Same goes for the balcony dilemma!

Check out different styles…high rise, low rise, lofts, newer/older buildings…

The floor plan is ideal but not crazy about the aesthetics!? Remember wall colours, appliances, countertops can be changed so decide what is more important to you…the perfect layout or the shiny new stainless steel appliances!

Find out exactly what your monthly maintenance fees include!

Get a parking spot even if you don’t drive! Think resale. If you don’t use it, rent it and put that towards your shoe fund!! …for all the walking you’ll be doing of course…

A locker is highly recommended as storage is usually limited.

Does the building have bicycle facilities?

Look into pet restrictions if you have a furry loved one. Are there limitations such as size, type or the number of pets per unit?

Purchase the largest suite you can comfortably afford as they are typically easier to resale.

The prettier the view, the happier you will be and the easier it will be to entice a future buyer! Avoid: overlooking garbage disposal, being above the garage entrance, by the elevator or garbage room.

Make your offer conditional on your real estate lawyer reviewing the Status Certificate and the Condominium Documents!