Questions to Ask Before Buying a Condo
Buying a condominium can be an excellent option for many homebuyers—often offering lower maintenance, shared amenities, and access to desirable locations. However, purchasing a condo is not the same as buying a single-family home. In addition to the unit itself, you’re buying into a shared legal and financial structure that deserves careful review.
Before committing to a condo purchase in Massachusetts, here are some key questions every buyer should ask.
1. What Are the Condo Fees—and What Do They Actually Cover?
Monthly condo fees vary widely and can change over time. It’s important to understand:
The current monthly fee
What expenses are included (maintenance, insurance, utilities, reserves, amenities)
Whether fees have increased recently or are expected to increase
Low fees may seem attractive, but they can signal underfunded reserves or deferred maintenance.
2. How Financially Healthy Is the Condo Association?
A condo association’s finances directly affect owners. Ask to review:
The association’s budget
Reserve fund balances
Recent or upcoming special assessments
A poorly funded association can result in unexpected costs for unit owners, even if your unit is well maintained.
3. Are There Any Pending or Planned Special Assessments?
Special assessments are additional charges imposed on owners for major repairs or projects. Even if one hasn’t been formally approved yet, planned capital projects may indicate future costs.
Knowing this upfront can help you avoid surprises after closing.
4. What Are the Rules and Restrictions?
Condo living comes with rules that may impact your lifestyle. Review the condominium documents carefully to understand:
Pet restrictions
Rental or leasing limits
Renovation or alteration rules
Use of common areas
If you plan to rent the unit in the future or have specific lifestyle needs, restrictions can be a deal-breaker.
5. What Is the Condition of the Building and Common Areas?
Even if your unit looks perfect, common elements matter. Ask:
When the roof, siding, and major systems were last replaced
Whether there are known maintenance issues
If inspections have identified upcoming repairs
Deferred maintenance often leads to special assessments later.
6. Is the Condo Warrantable for Financing?
Not all condos qualify for conventional financing. Factors like owner-occupancy ratios, association litigation, or financial instability can affect loan approval.
Confirm early that your lender is comfortable with the condominium to avoid delays or denial late in the process.
7. Is There Ongoing or Past Litigation Involving the Association?
Lawsuits—especially those involving construction defects or disputes with owners—can impact:
Financing options
Insurance costs
Property values
This information is typically disclosed, but buyers should understand the nature and status of any litigation.
8. What Insurance Coverage Does the Association Carry?
Condo associations usually carry a master insurance policy, but coverage varies. Buyers should clarify:
What the association’s insurance covers
What you are responsible for insuring individually
Whether additional coverage (such as an HO-6 policy) is needed
Understanding this helps avoid gaps in coverage.
9. How Is the Condo Association Managed?
Ask whether the association is:
Professionally managed or self-managed
Responsive to maintenance and owner concerns
Organized with clear records and communication
Strong management often correlates with smoother ownership experiences.
10. Have the Condo Documents Been Reviewed by an Attorney?
Condo documents are legal documents—and they matter. A Massachusetts real estate attorney can review:
The master deed
Trust documents and bylaws
Rules and regulations
Disclosures provided by the seller
This review helps ensure you understand your rights, obligations, and potential risks before closing.
Why These Questions Matter
When you buy a condo, you’re not just purchasing a home—you’re joining a community with shared responsibilities. Asking the right questions early can help you avoid unexpected expenses, restrictions, or legal complications down the road.
How Heine Goodale Law Can Help
Heine Goodale Law works with buyers throughout Massachusetts to review condo documents, explain association structures, and help clients move forward with clarity and confidence. Our role is to make sure you understand what you’re buying—before you sign.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every condominium and transaction is different. Buyers should consult with a qualified Massachusetts real estate attorney for advice specific to their situation.
