Tips for a First-Time Condo Buyer

by THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo 08/12/2018

Buying a condo may seem like an uphill climb, particularly for those who are browsing the real estate market for the first time. Lucky for you, we're here to help you take the guesswork out of finding the right condo.

What does it take to locate a high-quality condo at an affordable price? Here are three tips that every first-time condo buyer needs to know.

1. Explore a Wide Range of Condos

The real estate market is filled with many first-rate condos, and the sheer volume of properties that are available may feel overwhelming at times. Therefore, you should allocate the necessary time and resources to find a condo that suits you perfectly.

Don't be afraid to check out several condos over the course of a few days or weeks. By doing so, you can better understand what you'd like to find in the ideal condo.

Of course, if you fall in love with a condo, you should be ready to submit an offer. That way, you can avoid the risk of missing out on a great condo that matches or exceeds your expectations.

2. Determine How You'll Pay for a Condo

Many property buyers get pre-approved for a mortgage, and for good reason. With a mortgage in hand, you'll know exactly what you can afford as you review the real estate market.

Meet with a variety of banks and credit unions. These lenders will be able to provide you with multiple mortgage options and respond to your financing concerns and queries.

Also, keep in mind that the price of a condo may extend beyond your monthly mortgage payments.

In many instances, condo communities have homeowners' associations (HOAs) in place that will charge monthly fees. Learn about any HOA fees in advance, and you'll know exactly what you'll need to pay each month to live in a particular condo community.

3. Work with a Real Estate Agent

No one should be forced to evaluate condos on their own. Fortunately, you can hire a real estate agent to streamline the process of finding a terrific condo.

A real estate agent with condo experience understands the hurdles that may arise during a condo search. As such, he or she will do whatever it takes to ensure you can get the best results possible as you look for the perfect condo.

For instance, a real estate agent will set up condo showings and keep you up to date about open houses. This real estate professional will even negotiate with a condo seller on your behalf, which means you won't have to worry about breaking your budget to purchase a stellar condo.

Employing a real estate agent enables you to get expert advice at each stage of the condo buying process too. Thus, you can receive instant responses to your condo buying questions at any time.

Simplify the process of buying your first condo – use the aforementioned tips, and you can boost your chances of acquiring a superb condo at a budget-friendly price.

About the Author
Author

THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo

The Cuomo Team - 24 years experience serving South Florida's Real Estate needs!

Specializing in Residential and Commercial Real Estate Services - 

I am a dedicated Realtor specializing in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties. The commercial division of our team covers Central Florida, and all of South Florida including Broward and Dade Counties. 

I pride myself on being honest and professional. I have been committed for the past 24 years to have all of my clients 100% satisfied with my services, at all times- from the first time home buyer, luxury client, to commercial property investor- and everything in between! In this ever-changing marketplace, it is imperative to have an experienced Realtor. It can make all the difference in the world in your transaction! I have been successful in accomplishing this based on a long list of satisfied clients! I would be honored to help you buy or sell your next property! 

I have lived in the local area for over thirty years. After college, I worked as a paralegal for five years before deciding to go into the real estate profession in 1998. My husband, John, and I have resided in the Town of Jupiter for the past thirty years and consider it a great place to live, and have raised a family. We have two sons, 22 and 25.

One of my sons, Matthew Cuomo also works on our team, along with my daughter in law, Tasianna Cuomo. John, a retired firefighter from the Town of Palm Beach, works in the Commercial Division. My sister in law, Christine Cuomo Georgeou, also is part of our team, so that someone is always available to service any client, any time, 7 days a week! 

You can contact me directly anytime at 561-339-3002, and I will be happy to assist you with any of your real estate needs! I look forward to hearing from you!

Kim Cuomo

Keller Williams Realty

KW Commercial