Square footage can be measured any number of ways in condominium plans, total with or without the balcony, total of heating and cooled area, etc,. Divide the asking price by the number of square feet to arrive at dollar-per-foot costs that you can compare.

Construction of condominiums can vary dramatically. Concrete obviously is more long lasting and generally quieter than frame construction, but "post-tensioned" concrete construction can have problems requiring maintenance. Concrete transmits tapping sounds, while wood-frame buildings can quiver slightly under heavy footsteps. Quality will be your best investment and the reputation of an experienced condo builder is vital. Recent hurricanes to the area have demonstrated that certain builders build better buildings.

Heating and Cooling is an important issue in condos. When running comparable units for price, also run those same units for rental income and expenses and you'll be able to see which units will cost you more per month than others..

Renters will be found in almost all complexes on the gulf coast but some are rent restricted. A read through of condo by laws is an excellent way to gain knowledge as to the history of the building and rules. In particular these documents detail the common areas and what your monthly dues are to pay. If you have a question, contact a board member, it's a great way to gage if you'll like the neighbors.

Age mix of owners might seem a strange consideration, but if you're a yuppie, do you want to live in a retirement home? And if you're enjoying a quiet retirement, you probably want neighbors you can relate to and make friends with. In short, condominium projects can become small communities where-if you choose the right one-you can make many friends and enjoy an in-house social life.

Condo documents are necessary to evaluate any condominium project before you buy. Sellers should have them on hand for you to review on site, and if you have an agreement to purchase, they should be handed to you without hesitation. These include the Condominium Plan, financial statements and budget, the reserve fund study, minutes of the recent annual general meeting and even board meeting minutes, so you have insight into how the complex is being run.

Orientation of the condo is important if it's an apartment facing only one direction, less so if it's a townhouse or duplex bungalow condominium with more exposures. How much sun does the home receive, and is that sun hitting your bedroom windows at 5 a.m. during the summer? You may prefer it, or you might hate it, so be aware of which way/s a home faces and whether it will be bright enough, too hot or too dark for your needs. Another good rule is to see your condo or visit the area at various times of day.

Real estate agents may be licensed to sell condominiums as well as houses, but do they know what they're doing? Use a First Team Consultant who has taken condominium courses. If you are buying, Realtor services are at no cost to you, as the selling party pays commission, so you might as well receive qualified representation and advice. Whether buying or selling, you want nothing less than top-quality condominium credentials, ability, experience and market knowledge from your Realtor.