2. How much space do I have? . Having an idea of how much space you can utilize dictate the number of furniture you will buy (if the condo isn’t furnished or is just semi-furnished), as well as the other deorations you plan or like to have put up.

3. Are there going to be children and pets in the house? Children and pets are unpredictable elements in a home – if you have kids and / or pets, you might want to avoid displaying breakables. And have your home childproofed.

4. Is there something missing. Something like an extra handrail or an extra cabinet or closet.

You are now sure that a condo unit is what you want to buy. You just need to find a unit that will suit your budget and lifestyle.

You must already have an idea on what kind of condo unit you want.

Determine your budget and size for the condo? Do you want just a studio? 1 bedroom or 2 bedroom with a loft?

Keep that in mind when budgeting your monthly salary that there are additional expenses attached to condo living like association dues.

Choose a location that is accessible for you. It can be in the heart of the city and near commercial establishments. Also, check out the neighborhood. Do they have tight security?

What kind of neighbors will you be having? Do they allow pets?

Having all these in mind then, you can be sure that a Condo unit is the right home for you.

Whether as a vacation home, a rental property, or simply a real property holding you keep for investment purposes, a second home can offer you as many advantages as your primary residence.

For one, your second home can be your home away from home, where you can relax and enjoy your time with your family. Lakefront or beachfront condo units might be the best choice for you. After the hustle and bustle of your workweek you know that you have a place where you can get some much needed R & R.

What’s even more exciting than this is that a second home investment can be very financially rewarding. There is tax deductible interest, and the potential real estate appreciation. Also, if you choose to rent or lease out your property, the potential rental income can be very rewarding.

Buying a home is a major decision. What home to buy is a much bigger decision.

First time buyers often tend to look at condo units first, possibly because it is much cheaper than houses. Condo units are more affordable.

You do not need to bother maintenance on condos as there are association fees paid monthly.

Usually condos are located near commercial establishments.

Most condo units have amenities like swimming pools or tennis courts.

A condo is a good buy for busy people as they do not have bother about house maintenance.

Overall, you have to think carefully on what home you want to buy. Visualize yourself living in that place for a couple of years and choose a home that will suit your lifestyle and way of living.

It is important to be in harmony with your neighbors as they are the nearest people you can go to if there might be troubles. So, to keep that peace in your place, please take note of the following:

Throw all your garbage appropriately. That’s what garbage bins are for.

Minimize the noise especially when you are having a party. There are also other people in the building. Be considerate.

Take only your own mails. If they are not for you, please just leave them in the mail room.

Do not leave your children running down the hallway. It will annoy your neighbors.

Learn to understand that there are people living beside and under you. The sound of your heels on the flooring might bother them. Also, moving furniture’s or vacuuming the condo can be done during the day and not at dawn or at wee hours of the night.

1.    Ponder on the thoughts when preparing to buy a condo. Is it the right move? Will it fit my budget? Will it fit my Lifestyle?

2.    Check the advantages and disadvantages of an urban lifestyle. Check out various Condos and note their strengths and weaknesses and also take note of the price range.

3.    Get prequalified for a mortgage.

4.    Inspect the building complex of your desired condo location. See my article on how to inspect for a condo unit.

5.    Make an offer and close on the deal.

Yes, you may have to settle with living with others in such close proximity but condos are quite easy to live in(if the elevator works). Luxury truly is a thing of value but it does come in small packages, like in condos which may be the only living space you can easily get in a bustling city.

1.    Design and Layout – check the design of the unit and the layout of the floor plan such as rooms, doors, windows. Is the unit in the direct path of the sun? If that’s the case you should consider that in summertime you may spend a bit more energy and money for airconditioning.

2.    Noise – from both inside and outside sources  visit the unit you want to buy at different times because there are times when it so peaceful but check it at weekends or during rush-hour period to see if the noise is bearable or not.

3.    Privacy – We all want our privacy and we must find the perfect unit to help maintain our privacy, check the unit decks and patios to make sure your safe from prying eyes and such.

4.    Security -  Comes hand in hand with Privacy, Is there a security system in the building complex and in the unit, is it properly lit at night Is the unit or building secure and have ample security to deter criminals?

5.    Amenities – Every building has ameneties that are widely available to residents, such as a pool, a hot tub and community room. And always check and ask the buliding management if there are fees for usage and maintennace of these said amenities.

6.    Parking – Which is near an elevator, stairs, or close to your unit. And is properly lit.

Opinions vary and so does styling but whichever way one goes(functional or more decorative) it does give one all the freedom to do whatever you may wish to the interior, as long as it adheres to the building’s set rules and regulations and that you do not bother the neighbors too much.