Michelle

Good afternoon, Sowjanya.

Buying a condo in Fairoaks and Tasman is not a bad idea. First, it is very close to different high tech companies along North First Street so it may be marketable should you decide to sell or rent later on. Secondly, the condos there are quite nice. Finally, the home associations maintain the exterior of the property, providing you with time to conduct other activities. Let me know if you need help. bluemountainsrealty@gmail.com.

Michelle - Sat Aug 16 2008, 15:35

Good evening, Tiffany.

You have a few choices. :) There's a third element I would like to point out:

1. SFH not part of a HOA community
2. SFH located in part of a HOA community
3. Attached Townhouse located as part of a HOA community.

SFH out of HOA communities - You would have to maintain the outside of the home as well as the inside. You would have to pay for garbage, landscaping, electricity, insurance and all associated costs.

SFH in HOA community - These tend to be newer homes. The HOA usually offers amenities such as pool access, club gym access, etc. The HOA may maintain the front yard and other areas to keep the value of the neighborhood. The HOA fees may include garbage, pool maintaince, insurance, club access, etc. HOA fees vary depending on the HOA. Generally, there may be more flexibility in remodeling the interior of the house. Neighbors follow a set of rules to protect the value of the homes and the community in general.

Attached townhomes located in a community. Same as above but the HOA rules (CC&Rs) may govern the interior of the homes, which may not be "negative" because any remodeling of the interior outside of the CC & Rs may affect the value of the townhomes and the neighbors in that community (for example, any water leaking upstairs may have a negative impact on the unit downstairs). - Fri Aug 15 2008, 19:40