Buying a condo, just like buying any other type of living space, requires a lot of thought and consideration. There are many factors to consider, many of which we outlined in this blog on buying a condo.
But there are also some other factors that many buyers don’t think of until after they have purchased a condo, or even lived in their new space. We’ll unearth these lesser-known considerations that should factor into your decision.
Here is a list of condo owner experience elements that will help you narrow down your search even further so that you’re aware of what to know when buying a condo.
- Elevator/Stairs
- Garbage
- Bike Storage/Parking
- Concierge
- Amenities
- Outdoor Space/Unit Location
ELEVATOR/STAIRS
Whether you’re heading down to the lobby on the main level, going for a workout at the fitness centre or down to the storage room and/or the parking garage, how long will it take you? If there aren’t many elevators and plenty of tenants, suddenly, the one-minute trip that you envisioned becomes ten. But maybe your unit is on the second floor and you can take the stairs down to the lobby and/or garage. Don’t underestimate the value of saving time in your day-to-day life.
GARBAGE
Where do tenants take their garbage for disposal? Is there a shoot nearby that takes refuse and recyclables? How does it work? Is it close to your unit? If so, it might be loud when other residents deposit their waste down the garbage shoot near your suite.
BIKE STORAGE AND PARKING
If you’re a frequent cyclist or need regular access to your car, you’ll need to factor in how long it typically takes to get to bike storage and/or your parking space. Also, how easy is it to access your bike? And is it in a secure enough area for your peace of mind?
CONCIERGE
A concierge is important for security purposes. But also, what are the protocols for packages and/or food being delivered to the building? It may seem like a small thing, but what happens if the policy isn’t firm and you lose an important package?
AMENITIES
The costs for amenities are typically included in your condo fees. So, before buying, make sure that you’re getting value for those fees. Will you use the fitness centre, pool, sauna, or meeting rooms? If your answer is no, or not very often, you may not find worth in paying your maintenance/condo fees for services and amenities that you will rarely use, if at all.
OUTDOOR SPACE/UNIT LOCATION
How close is the outdoor space to neighbours? To your unit? While outdoor spaces are a great place to gather, will noise be a factor for you based on the location of your unit? Additionally, is the green space adequate for tenants to utilize? If you have a pet, is the outdoor common area large enough of an area for them?
Moreover, where is your unit in relation to the sun’s path? How much light will brighten your unit and during what time of day? If you work at home, this could also be important to consider as it will affect light and temperature in your suite.
By taking the above list into consideration (and the list in this blog), you’ll be less likely to regret any aspects of your decision when buying a condo. While there are a lot of things to think about, knowing them now will save you time and headaches.
Are you ready to move to the next stage? Let’s chat. Send me an email (hillary@hillarylane.ca) or text/phone (416-882-4707)
Photo by DESIGNECOLOGIST on Unsplash
