Buying a Santa Cruz condo may be the answer to your home ownership dream.  They are usually lower maintenance than a traditional home, and most of them come with amenities.  Here are a few things to consider before you set your heart on a condo:

Identify the Living Space You Need
One of the first things you’ll need to do is sit down and make a list of what you want in your home.  How many bedrooms do you need?  Do you need one bathroom or two?  Do you need a one-level condo or do you prefer a two-story townhome?  What amenities do you want - swimming pool, fitness center, tennis courts? 

Read the Convenants, Conditions and Restrictions
This is the set of rules that govern condominiums.  They may include rules on renting, remodeling and noise levels to name a few.  Some condominium developments don’t allow pets.  Others have a limit on the number of pets or the size of the pet.  If you have pets or want to get some, make sure they meet your condo requirements. 

Include all Fees in Your Budget
Before you go looking for the condo that fits your needs, figure out how much you can afford to pay including all condo fees.  Fees for Santa Cruz condos vary widely.  Be sure to find out what these fees are, what they pay for, and include these fees in your budget.

Check Out the Neighborhood
If you have kids, inspect the nearby schools.   Find out how far away the nearest grocery stores and gas stations are.  Determine if it's within an acceptable drive time to your work.

Choose Your Neighbors Too
One thing to remember when looking at a condominium is that bad neighbors can spoil even the greatest places.  It’s a good idea to stop by the condo complex at a variety of times to see what the neighbors are really like.  Visit the pool and any other areas available to the condo community.  Ask the people you meet there what they like and don't like about the condo development.  You'll be surprised at what they're willing to share.

Santa Cruz condos are a great option, and just might be perfect for you. 

If you're thinking of buying a condo, give me a call today at 831.662.6522 or email me at lauren@laurenspencer.com  I can help you assess whether owning a condo is right for you.

 

LINKS:

1. Condominiums

2. Schools

3. Neighbors

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