That beautifully renovated condo checks all the boxes and you want to make an offer, how exciting! 

But wait.... when you buy a condo, not only are you buying a strata lot, you are also buying into a building as a whole, and you need to make sure this building is the right one for you.

After you view the unit, take notice of the condition of the hallways and use the stairs, are they well kept? If the stairwells are dirty and used as a storage area, perhaps they aren't maintaining other areas that you can't see, do they have funds for regular maintenance? If however the hallways and stairwells are clean and maintained, it shows good building management and pride of ownership.

Ask to see the parking space and take note of the parkade, is it bright and clean? A well-lit parkade shows safety is taken seriously and is also a deterrent for break-ins. Even taking a peek into the garbage and recycle room is a good idea.

Take a few extra minutes to walk the grounds and speak with people, do they seem friendly and open? Have they lived in the building for a long time? What do they like, what needs improvement? You'd be amazed at how much you can learn, after all, these people will be your new neighbours.

Having the right realtor can help make buying your new home an enjoyable, low stress experience. This is one of your largest investments, make sure it is the right fit for you.