Are you and your condo compatible?
by Denise Lash
When you purchase a condo, your agent or lawyer will order a Status Certificate from the condominium. This certificate includes all the condo documentation and other information about the corporation and its finances.
But how do you know if the condo you’re thinking of buying will suit your lifestyle? Each condo has its own features, amenities, and, of course, the community itself that are worth exploring before you make your final decision as to whether a condo fits your needs.
Some of this information may be on the condo website and/or official newsletters, which are often prepared by a committee of residents. You may be able to obtain the information you’re looking for from a resident or from property management.
Once you move into your condo, it’s important to know the essential rules and procedures that you will have to observe as an owner. Many property managers and boards of directors are aware of the necessity to educate new residents and assist them with offering welcome packets to communicate the essential rules. Some have even gone so far as to provide DVDs, CDs, and videos with introductory information about the community and the day-to-day operations of the condo . Things that you may want to know include:
Understanding the leasing procedures—what do you have to do to rent out your unit?
What if you want to install a satellite dish on your balcony? Do you have information that explains how to make an application to your board of directors? Are you even permitted to have a satellite dish?
Who are the board members of the corporation and who is the property manager?
What committees does the corporation have and how do you volunteer to be on a committee?
How do you make a complaint or request to have an action taken?
If you find that you’re having difficulty getting information after you become a condo owner, it may be time to suggest that the property management and the board of directors, with your assistance, develop new ways of communicating information to residents and potential purchasers so that the transition to condo life is a pleasant experience.
Denise Lash is a condominium lawyer at Miller Thomson, LLP and host of the television show MondoCondo.
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