Condo living on the North Shore - A kiss or a Curse?
There are generally two different times in life when a condo makes sense. Just starting out and when the kids leave home. Both of these times can be really problematic. The common belief of many is that Strata living is the easy non complicated way to live. 'Just lock the door and go away for six months' say the retirees, 'No worries about maintenance' say the first time home buyers.....nothing could be further from the truth in both cases.
True enough it is a less complicated way to live if you plan to travel, but you still have to pay someone to maintain the building while you are away. The myth that your monthly maintenance fees take care of everything is coming back to bite many in the behind. As these buildings age, membranes, roofs, plumbing, parkades, all will need attention. Trying to second guess which building may have the next problems is nearly impossible.
Buying a condo or townhouse can be a perfect way to still maintain ownership - so long as you are well informed and are not under the impression that all you have to do is move in and put your feet up.
28 years experience and a realistic look at the options is what I can bring to the table. My job is to supply you with all the information to make an informed decision.
The Myths about Strata Living
Blog by Patrick O'Donnell PREC* | November 24th, 2011