What You Don't Know Can Hurt You When Buying a Condo

Posted by Kathy S Bass on Wednesday, November 7th, 2012 at 1:44pm

    Gulf Coast Realtors typically get calls from people that start like this; "I'm thinking about buying a condo and I'd like to check some prices". Most of the calls are from people who have acquired their knowledge of condos from friends or family members. They think ; 1) it's a great investment, 2) we want to retire  and live at the beach someday, 3) we have some money in savings and  want a second home for our family, or 4) we would like to create a tax shelter that also provides the opportunity for our family to enjoy.

    All of these are great thoughts, but most people I talk with have done little or no planning about the purchase. They have the vision of a carefree time of playing on the beach with their kids/grandkids or reclining in a lounger on the deck overlooking the Gulf as the sun sets. We can get you closer to that dream if you understand some basics about condos that allow you to select the right property that best fits your budget and meets the expectations you have for the property.

Rule of Thumb Guidelines

We categorize condos into 3 general areas:

Condotels:  A motel converted into a condominium with very few amenities or a new condo that that offers basic amenities such as a pool and may a pool deck food service. 

Condominium.: A complex offering multiple pools, some indoor or outdoor, fitness facilities, tennis courts, small meeting rooms, and on-sight food service.

Condominium Complex:  A complete complex with multiple pools, conference facilities, tennis or golf on site, restaurants, fitness facilities, and marinas.

     Association fees are dues paid by the condo owner to cover a number of items that include the cost of the common areas, building insurance, and a for reserve for replacement for common area depreciation. Other items can be included such as cable TV., phone, water, sewer, garbage, etc.

Note: make sure you understand what your association fees cover. The State recommends that 20% of your dues be placed in reserve for replacement, It does not require it.  If your association uses this money for revenue short falls, when items like the pool or building HVAC require maintenance, the association could impose special assessment.

     Most lenders require 20-30% down when financing and most will not allow fixed mortgages. Terms are higher than residential rates and limited to 10-15 years. If you intend to place the unit on a rental program and have the rental income pay all expenses for mortgage, insurance, association fees, rental company fees, and depreciation,  plan to put 40% or more down.

     The 4 sources of income from a condo are: rental income, appreciation, tax deferment, and perks to clients or customers of a business. It is highly recommended you consult your tax advisor or financial planner to discuss the best solution for your financial circumstance that provides protection and takes advantage of all tax allowances. We also recommend you discuss leverage ratios (the use of borrowed capital and the benefits through tax deferment).Paying cash for a unit might not provide the best solution for tax deferment and investment strategy.    

That's a lot of stuff to consider. Some you may not have thought about. That's why selecting the right realtor who understands these issue could save you money from day one! It could make the difference of that dream about reclining in the lounge on the deck of your dream condo come true or prevent the nightmare of a money pit!

You can start your search for a Gulf Coast Condo today

   

3 Responses to What You Don't Know Can Hurt You When Buying a Condo

Nick wrote:

This is a topic that's near to my heart... Take care! Where are your contact details though?

Posted on Tuesday, November 27th, 2012 at 5:11pm

Connie wrote:

I know this if off topic but I'm looking into starting my own blog and was curious what all is needed to get set up? I'm assuming having a blog like yours would cost a
pretty penny? I'm not very web smart so I'm not 100% sure. Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated. Kudos

Posted on Thursday, December 13th, 2012 at 1:37pm

Jacob wrote:

Hey there just wanted to give you a quick heads up.
The words in your article seem to be running off the screen
in Ie. I'm not sure if this is a formatting issue or something to do with browser compatibility but I thought I'd
post to let you know. The design and style look great though!
Hope you get the issue resolved soon. Cheers


Thanks for the heads up. Probably browser compatibility which we are working on right now. What browser are you using?

Posted on Saturday, December 22nd, 2012 at 9:22pm

Leave A Comment

Format example: yourwebsitename.com