Is Condo Living Right for You? Image

Is Condo Living Right for You?

By Penny on Jul 28, 2014

If you’re torn between whether or not to move into a condo, here are a few things to consider before you pack up all your worldly possessions and settle in!

The good stuff

So you’re thinking of buying a condo; great! Time to throw away the lawn mower, snow shovel and that never ending list of home repairs. Think of all the fun activities you’ll finally have time for because you don’t need to worry about home repairs; you can just call your condo supervisor and be on your merry way. Aside from that, imagine having access to incredible facilities that you’ve always dreamed of having, like a pool or a sauna. Almost every development these days comes with state-of-art amenities like a fitness facilities, games rooms, party rooms, and more. Leaving your condo is almost pointless when you have a fully equipped gym, yoga studio and peaceful meditation centre. If you’re really lucky and end up buying in one of these extraordinary, luxury condos, you’ll enjoy rooftop pools and features that will maximize your ability to enjoy outdoor urban life.

Yonge + Rich - via Great Gulf Yonge + Rich - via Great Gulf

Choose from buildings that pride themselves on providing enhanced security features like 24/7 concierge, cameras and key fob only access, not to mention the comfort of having neighbours nearby. Neighbours aren’t just great to have in case of emergencies, how about when you run out of milk? Or just want to make new friends without resorting to Tinder? Condo buildings are a fantastic way to expand that social network. Be it from elevator small talk to meeting in any of the wide range of social, entertainment and recreational activities planned by condo committees. The best part? You can be on these committees to help develop the kind of environment and atmosphere that you want to be a part of. Lastly, the cost of living in a condo is consistent which can help you plan expenses and provide you with ease of mind, whereas owning a house always ends up costing you more in unforeseen repairs, upgrades and services.

The downfalls

Though you’re no longer responsible for maintenance or repairs, you might not like having to wait for these things to get done. Many condos are efficient in getting issues resolved, but it’s not something you’ll be able to have very much control over. Condo fees are determined by the cost of maintenance expenses for those exuberant luxury amenities, which are typically great, but if you’re not a swimmer, paying for that rooftop infinity pool might be less enticing.

But who doesn't want a pool like this? - YC Condos' rooftop pool - via  Canderel But who doesn't want a pool like this? - YC Condos' rooftop pool - via Canderel

If you’re not a very social person, you may not enjoy having so many close neighbours. Living in close quarters can be a nightmare; what if your neighbour is constantly coming over to borrow milk?! Another huge factor to consider is possible restrictions with regards to pets and decor. If you’re an animal lover like us at Newinhomes.com, perhaps you’ll need to consider places where Wishbone will be happy too. And some condo buildings only allow you to hang a certain kind or colour of curtains, and you can’t make big changes like replacing the front door.

Now that we’ve given you a few things to consider, check out these amazing upcoming developments!

Feature image: YC Condos by Canderel

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