04

Condominium

Lock-and-leave living — with the building doing the heavy lifting.

Key Takeaways
01

A condo is ownership of a single unit within a larger structure, plus a fractional interest in shared common elements.

02

The financial and legal review of a condominium is more involved than any other property type.

A condo is ownership of a single unit within a larger structure, plus a fractional interest in shared common elements. In the best buildings, that fraction buys concierge, fitness, pool, rooftop, secure parking, and a maintenance staff that answers when the dishwasher fails on a Sunday.

The financial and legal review of a condominium is more involved than any other property type. We read the resale package cover to cover: budget, reserve study, meeting minutes, insurance master policy, litigation disclosures, rental caps, pet rules, and any pending special assessments. A building with a beautiful lobby and a hollow reserve fund is a building to walk away from.

Key Points

For You If

You want amenities, urban proximity, minimal exterior maintenance, and a lock-and-leave lifestyle.

Reserve Studies Matter

A fully-funded reserve is a green light. An underfunded reserve is a future special assessment with your name on it.

Financing Nuances

Warrantable vs. non-warrantable status affects loan program, rate, and down payment requirements.

The Buyer's Checklist
  • For You If

    You want amenities, urban proximity, minimal exterior maintenance, and a lock-and-leave lifestyle.

  • Reserve Studies Matter

    A fully-funded reserve is a green light. An underfunded reserve is a future special assessment with your name on it.

  • Financing Nuances

    Warrantable vs. non-warrantable status affects loan program, rate, and down payment requirements.

Practitioner's Notes
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