Condos, or condominiums, are single units within a particular complex. They are very different from houses. They have shared spaces which everyone uses. When you buy a condo, you only own one unit, but can use everything the complex offers. Buying a condo in Florida can mean a significant change from what you are used to. Especially if you are moving from a house, rather than an apartment. There are many things to consider. Like any other move, it has its positive and negative sides. We have explored all the advantages and shortcomings of this decision. Make sure to know what you are in for before you make the choice.
Pros
There are amenities which cost less
Many condo complexes in Florida have their own fitness centers, pools, tennis courts, etc. which are offered at a lower rate. These facilities would cost a lot more if attended separately. Furthermore, your neighbors probably also use these facilities. So they are great places to meet people and get to know them.
Many complexes offer gym memberships for a smaller fee.
Closeness to the beach
Florida beaches attract many tourists and new residents every year. The ocean is relaxing and beneficial for your health, according to studies. Imagine waking up every morning to the sound of the waves and the smell of the ocean. Moreover, if you wish to get away from stress, buying a condo in Florida will help greatly. Moreover, Florida beaches offer a large variety of sports and activities which you can take part in. This is also one of the ways in which you can meet your fellow condo residents.
Buying a condo in Florida is cheaper than a house
While there are many reasons for a move, you cannot neglect the financial aspect. From this point of view, buying a condo makes more sense than buying a house. Condos are much cheaper and cost less to keep up. Furthermore, research shows that condos have appreciated faster than houses in recent years. This means that you will be able to sell it for more than you paid for. Additionally, the bills for a condo are usually far less than those for a house. Although a condo is usually smaller than a typical house, it can still be decorated in the way you want.
The stress of moving from a house to a condo can be overwhelming. Hiring professional movers can take much of that stress away, especially if you have things which need to be put in storage. While it may seem like the cheaper option, moving buy yourself can actually be more expensive. When hiring a moving company, negotiate with Florida based interstate movers in order to get the best deal possible.
You won’t cover the costs of maintenance and repairs
When you own a house, you alone are responsible for the upkeep and the fees that go with it. In a condo complex, however, yearly fees cover these costs. All of the residents of the complex pay these fees, so they are less than you would spend yourself. The fees cover painting of the outside walls, electrical maintenance, and any repairs necessary in the complex. Additionally, you won’t have to mow the lawn, because the price you pay once a year includes landscaping.
The sense of security
Whether you live alone or with a family, security is probably very important for you. Many condo complexes have gated fences accessible with key cards. Some even have professional security guards who take shifts to cover the grounds 24/7. This contributes to the lack of burglaries and robberies in such communities. Also a benefit of buying a condo in Florida is that there is always someone to help you in an emergency. Everyone’s condos are so close that it’s virtually impossible for someone not to come help in such an instance.
Gated fences are one of the perks of living in such a community.
Cons
Close neighbors means less privacy
While in an emergency it’s good to have someone nearby, it’s not always the case. If you have lived in a house, living in a condo can be a big change. You will probably have neighbors with whom you share walls. If they are not especially thick, this means you will hear their whole lives. Moreover, they will be able to hear yours. This type of living also means that your neighbors will be able to see your comings and goings. If you value your privacy and don’t want your neighbors’ fighting to keep you up at night, buying a condo in Florida might not be for you.
You have to follow the rules
The condo association will have some type of a set of rules which all residents have to follow. While most of these are reasonable, some might deter you from making the move. For example, some condo complexes don’t allow pets. If you have a pet, make sure that the complex you choose allows you to have one in the condo. Additionally, many complexes forbid home offices, so if you are looking to move your office as well, find out whether the condo is appropriate.
While you might appreciate some of the rules, others can be overbearing.
Some companies will offer a discount for multiple relocations. For example, if your complex doesn’t allow a home office, you have to move both your home and your office. Try to find a reliable moving company. There are plenty of companies such as Verified Movers, that can find the perfect team of movers for your needs. Experts which will handle your move in the most professional way.
Condo dues can be overwhelming
When buying a condo in Florida, you don’t pay maintenance directly.However, the fees paid to the Homeowner Association can be a little much. Many would agree that the upkeep and amenities are not in fact overly expensive. On the other hand, some residents might not pay their due. In this case, the fees for all the other residents rise. So essentially, you would be paying for someone else. Make sure that you do research on the condo complex before you move, to avoid uncomfortable situations like this.
Weigh out your options
There are many reasons to be thinking about buying a condo in Florida. You might be downsizing, moving from a bigger house to a condo in order to cut down costs. Additionally, you might just yearn for the ocean and the coast of Florida. The lifestyle is appealing and can be a good change. On the other hand, you should consider the possible downsides of the move.
Think about the life you want to have and if it matches with what you have learned today. Also, it’s imperative that you do research on the specific condo complex you are considering. You want to avoid any unpleasant surprises after you have signed the papers. Whatever your decision, try to make as informed a choice as possible.