20 Questions to Ask when Buying a Condo
Considering a condominium? Take the time to research the community, talk to residents, review the condominium documents and study other data to answer these questions: 

1. WhatÕs the condition of the unit youÕre considering Š the building Š the entire complex?
2. Are common areas well-maintained?
3. How many condos are for sale? (Large percentage could be sign of problems.)
4. What percentage of the units are owner-occupied? (Many lenders wonÕt back loans if majority are rented.) 
5. How much are the condo/association fees and what do they cover? 
6. Does the association have adequate reserves for emergencies and renovations? (If not, you could face a special assessment.)
7. WhatÕs the temperament of the condo board? (Board minutes could reveal controversies.) 
8. Are there pending lawsuits against the association or judgements you might have to help pay?
9. What does the associationÕs insurance cover?  (You may need supplemental insurance to protect everything else.)
10. How much outstanding debt does the association have?
11. What percentage of the units are in arrears on their dues?
12. Does the seller owe back fees or assessments that may become your responsibility when you buy? 
13. WhatÕs the neighborhood like? (Ask neighbors and walk the area at night and on weekends to check when residents are home.)
14. Does the unit come with reserved parking? 
15. Is there adequate additional parking for guests? 
16. Will you have extra storage space for bikes, paddleboards and the like?
17. Is the association managed by a qualified professional company? 
18. Does management handle ownersÕ requests and complaints quickly? 
19. Do association rules limit your ability to rent the unit? 
20. Will restrictions prevent you from changing visible elements such as the color of the front door or your window coverings?

Sources: Realtor.com, Investopedia, Bankrate.com, Kiplinger.com, Federal Housing Authority