When looking to buy a condo in Ottawa, attending viewings is an essential step in the process. A condo viewing allows you to get a feel for the space, inspect its condition, and determine if it meets your needs. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to look for during a condo viewing to ensure you make an informed decision.

Inspecting the Unit

1. Overall Condition:

Check the overall state of the unit. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as peeling paint, cracks in the walls, or damaged flooring. These can indicate how well the unit has been maintained.
Examine the ceilings and walls for water stains or mould, which could suggest past or ongoing water damage.

2. Layout and Space:

Evaluate the layout of the condo to see if it suits your lifestyle. Consider the flow of the rooms and whether the space is functional for your needs.
Measure the rooms to ensure your furniture will fit comfortably.

3. Lighting and Ventilation:

Check the natural lighting in the unit. Units with ample natural light tend to feel more spacious and inviting.
Test the ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms. Good ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup and mould growth.

4. Appliances and Fixtures:

Inspect the condition and age of the appliances included in the sale. Older appliances might need replacing soon, which can be an added cost.
Check the faucets, shower, and toilets for proper functioning and water pressure.

5. Noise Levels:

Pay attention to noise levels inside the unit. Thin walls and floors can result in high noise levels from neighbouring units or common areas.

Assessing the Building

1. Common Areas:

Inspect common areas like the lobby, hallways, and recreational facilities. Well-maintained common areas indicate a well-managed building.
Note the cleanliness and upkeep of these areas as it reflects the building management's commitment to maintenance.

2. Security:

Check the security features of the building. Look for secure entry systems, surveillance cameras, and well-lit common areas.
Ask about security staff and their availability.

3. Amenities:

Evaluate the building’s amenities, such as gyms, pools, party rooms, and outdoor spaces. Determine if these amenities align with your lifestyle and if they are well-maintained.
Consider the availability and condition of parking spaces and storage units.

4. Building Age and Maintenance:

Inquire about the age of the building and recent maintenance or renovations. Older buildings may require more frequent maintenance.
Ask to see a copy of the building’s maintenance schedule and any upcoming major repairs.

5. Condo Fees:

Understand what the monthly condo fees cover. These typically include maintenance of common areas, amenities, and building insurance.
Compare the fees with similar buildings in the area to ensure they are reasonable.

Questions to Ask

1. What is included in the sale?

Clarify what appliances, fixtures, and fittings are included in the purchase.

2. What are the condo rules and regulations?

Request a copy of the condo rules and regulations. Ensure they align with your lifestyle and any future plans you may have, such as owning pets or renting out the unit.

3. What is the financial health of the condo corporation?

Ask for a copy of the condo corporation’s financial statements. Look for healthy reserve funds and a history of sound financial management.

4. Are there any special assessments planned?

Special assessments are additional charges on top of condo fees for major repairs or improvements. Find out if any are planned or anticipated.

5. What is the turnover rate in the building?

A high turnover rate could indicate issues with the building or management. Ask why residents are moving out frequently.

Red Flags to Watch For

1. Poor Maintenance:

If common areas and the unit itself show signs of neglect, this could indicate poor management and potential future issues.

2. High Condo Fees with Few Amenities:

High condo fees should be justified by extensive or high-quality amenities. If fees seem high without adequate amenities, consider this a red flag.

3. Noise and Odour Issues:

Persistent noise or unpleasant odours during your visit could indicate ongoing problems with soundproofing or ventilation.

4. Unresponsive or Uninformed Management:

If building management or the condo board seems unresponsive or uninformed, this could lead to future headaches.

5. Legal Issues:

Check if there are any ongoing legal disputes involving the condo corporation. Legal issues can be costly and impact your living experience.

Attending a condo viewing is a critical step in the buying process. By thoroughly inspecting the unit, assessing the building, asking the right questions, and watching for red flags, you can ensure you make a well-informed decision. Remember, buying a condo is a significant investment, so take your time to evaluate each property carefully.

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