Subject: The Tennessean placement
From: "Merilee:::Kern Communications" <[email-masked]>
To: <[email-masked]>
Date: Mon, 17 Nov 2008 01:38:24 -0800

http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080912/COUNTY090103/809120354&template=printart

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      September 12, 2008

      Condo life has advantages, downfalls

      Ask yourself questions before signing on the dotted line

      Williamson A.M. news reports 

      With more and more condominium projects coming online in Williamson County, the option to buy one instead of a single-family home appeals to some homebuyers. But while there are many conveniences and advantages to condo living, there are lifestyle issues a homebuyer must take into account to determine if a condominium home will meet their high expectations.

      Robert Jenson, CEO of The Jenson Group realty company, offers insights to help buyers determine if a condominium is a prudent choice as a primary residence. According to Jenson, condo living may not be for you if . . .

      . You have a loud or large dog. Most condos do not have a private yard for your four-legged friend, only common areas, which means your dog will have to stay inside all day. Be sure to also review the Home Owner Association (Common Interest Community) rules and regulations with regards to pets, as there may be considerations as to the type, size, breed, etc. allowed.

      . You are a light sleeper. Once you live in a condo, it most likely means you have people living - and making noise - above, below or, at least, to the side-of you. Condo living also has a much higher "density," which means that within just 100 feet, you could have people that get up early, those that party late and everyone in between.

      . You like to work on cars. It's a safe bet to assume that most, if not all, condo HOA's will not let you work on your car in the parking lot or elsewhere on the property. So, if working on a transmission is your idea of a good time, it's doubtful the HOA will agree.

      . You need a lot of storage space. While there are roomy condos out there, more often than not they don't have a garage for extra storage, or much extra closets and cabinetry in general. So if you have a lot of stuff to be stored away, you might consider a more traditional residence where you can spread your wings.

      . You have many vehicles. It's rare to find a lower-price condo with a 2-car garage. Usually they offer a 1-car garage or carport. If you only get a carport, there could be theft issues or heat, snow and other weather issues depending on your climate. While higher-end condos usually can accommodate two vehicles, they sometimes have restrictions as to the allowable "type," with some having bans on motorcycles and open bed trucks. Accordingly, home buyers with more than one car should pay close attention to parking options.

      . You are on a budget and can't handle the higher HOA fees. Condos are known for offering residents additional amenities and commonly have homeowner dues from $100 to $500 and above per month. If you are highly budget-conscious and need to keep overhead expenses to a minimum, be sure to take the HOA dues and any additional special assessments into account.

      . You can't handle someone living above you, or hate elevators or stairs. With condo living, those in a lower unit will have others living above. Those living in upper units also may have neighbor noise to contend with and will have to haul groceries and other parcels a long way from the car to the front door using an elevator or stairs. Those with physical limitations should be particularly sensitive to this facet of condo living.

      . You like to throw big parties. From limited parking to complaining neighbors, if you are truly an entertainer at heart, a condo might not be the place for you. Plus there are usually HOA-assessed "quiet hours" as well that you may have to abide by.

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