Condominium living has lots of benefits for the right person. Generally, you can get more livingspace for the same price as a single-family home, developments tend to be newer, and many offer amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, etc. that you probably wouldn't have as a single-family home-owner. Exterior maintenance is taken care of by the homeowner association so you don’t have to be concerned about painting, landscaping, snow plowing, etc. If your roof leaks, call the association.

If you’re someone who wants easy living and convenience and you don’t mind paying a fee each month and letting other people make decisions for you; maybe giving up some personal freedoms for the greater good, it’s a great lifestyle! Just pay the fee, follow the rules, and forget about it…What’s not to like?

Well, if you like to be in control about how and when things happen, then you may not like it if the trustees decide to wait to fix something; or tell you your guests can't park on the side of the road or let your cat run free or decorate the exterior of your unit for the holidays … the list goes on. What about Aunt Mary who visits with her trailer every summer...you may think “Aunt Mary’s only staying for the weekend” no big deal, right? Unless lots of people are having guests with trailers – what’s that going to look like? How do you feel about paying for repairs that may not directly benefit you? Condo owners share everything – amenities as well as sometimes costly repairs.

I think you get what I mean… When purchasing a home, it’s important to think about how you want to live, not just what’s the biggest, newest place you can afford. Owning a condo is a lifestyle that lots of people enjoy - make sure you understand how it all works before you decide.

If you are looking for easy living, click here and check out this excellent townhouse at Deer Hedge Run and Oak Ridge in Maynard MA 01754 (22 miles west of Boston). Listed at $240,000, you won't find a better value in the area.

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