Questions To Ask When Buying A Condo

If you are looking to buy a condo, there are questions that may be very important for you to know.  I've put a star next to some of these questions that you may not be able to get the answer to until you are in escrow but the other ones, the listing agent should know or be able to find out

1. What are the monthly HOA dues?
2. What do those dues cover? Things like trash, hot water, cable, security....?
3. What amenities are in the building? A pool?  Workout room? Common BBQ area?
4. If there are no washer/dryer hookups in the condo, can I add them?
5. How many parking spaces do I get?  And are they side by side or tandem?
6. Is there guest parking?
7. In Los Angeles, condo buildings can not restrict you from having a pet. But they can limit the type of pet, number of pets and size so ask about this.
8. Who runs the HOA? An off-sight company or someone in the building?
*9. How much money are in the reserves?
10. Is there any litigation going on or pending with the HOA?
11. Are there any assessments now or pending?
*12. Are any units delinquent on their dues? 
13. Is there earthquake insurance on the building?
*14. If the unit does not currently have hardwood floors, can I put them in later?

Make sure to take this list with you when you see condos and if you aren't sure why you should be asking these questions, leave me a comment and I will explain further. And if you are looking to buy or sell your home, please consider calling me. I am always here to help.