April 2025
While looking for that perfect home, house hunters should evaluate the condition of properties they visit. Age, structural integrity, maintenance and renovations are important as is energy efficiency.
Some desire a move-in ready home. Others are prepared to repair, renovate or gut the entire space. Pet and smoking policies, access to washers and dryers, and effectiveness of heating/cooling systems are important considerations.
Assess the property’s overall condition. Check out the basement and parking areas, fitness room, storage, bicycle storage, laundry room, roof, garbage or trash room, and emergency exit stairwells. Ride elevators to see how they function. If unit problems are noted, obtain repair estimates.
Review the financials. Pay particular attention to the reserve fund level, monthly condo fees, recent changes in fees and any notices of pending fee or expenditure increases. Ask about recent capital projects and any that are pending.
In the unit, pay attention to the layout, room sizes, natural and fixture lighting, storage, and flow of the unit. Some prefer an open concept where the kitchen, living room and dining room flow into each other. Separate rooms are preferable for others. Bedrooms may be next to each other or at opposite ends of the unit. Considering these factors will allow you to make an informed decision about the unit’s suitability for your home.
At least once a year, condominium management and directors should play the role of prospective purchaser and take a look at the home with an open mind. This allows them both to identify problems and see how the home is viewed by others who purchase or rent based on the quality they perceive.
