Questions About Moving Into A Condo

When buying a condo, there are many questions, and I am finding that each condominium has its own rules. I just tried to make a list, and there are so many things.

-What does the monthly condo fees include?  

Utilities, gas, heat, electric, water, trash, recycling, snow removal areas, pool, cable, parking space(s) for owner and guests?

-Is there a fee for parking?  Assigned spaces, handicapped spaces? Is the garage space(s) deeded, and if so, how much are the taxes?

-Is there a community room/party room?  Fee? Chair and table set up available? How is it scheduled? How is guest parking handled?

-Guest room for out of town company and who supplies linens?

- How are the monthly fees paid?

-Is tipping expected of a doorman, desk, and maintenance personnel?  

-Elevators need a schedule for moving. What days/times are moving permitted?

-What are your contractor rules? Hours? Weekends? Holidays?

-Does the building have assigned storage?   Find out where and make sure it is empty, and you have the access key or combo. 

-What do you do with the empty moving boxes? 

-Are pets allowed, and if so, what restrictions? Rules for ESA, emotional support animals?

- How are the monthly fees paid? 

 Are there coupons, a drop-in box, or a mailing address? Is there an automatic payment withdrawal?

-Is there laundry in the unit? Is there also a shared laundry room in the building?

-Is maintenance included? Heating and AC filters, convectors? Some buildings do this service or have a warranty company.

-Where is the HVAC located, some units are on the roof. Is yours marked?  Some it is the sole responsibility of the owner.

-Does the condo have the right of first refusal?

-Heat and Air controls, is it central, or do you have your separate control depending on the season?

-Who is responsible for water heaters? What if there is a leak from above?

-Who do you contact for emergency repairs?

-Who is responsible for replacing and cleaning windows, screens, and sliding glass doors?

-Balconies, what are the rules?

Can you paint, carpet, plant window boxes, or have hanging plants?

-Is renting allowed? 

-Where do you get keys, fobs and garage openers?

Can you change your locks?

Who has access to your condo?

-How is mail delivered, and are you notified when it arrives?

-How are you informed if you have a visitor or a package?

We have many different condos in Baltimore, and each one is different. There are condo rules and regulations, and it is a good idea to be familiar with them.

Suggestion: Ask for a meeting with the building maintenance manager before you move.

Ask for a meeting with the board president or member to get your questions answered.

Would you like more information on a Baltimore Condo Home?

Call Margaret Rome