Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the country with approximately 1,000 people moving in every day. When you consider the lifestyle being advertised, it isn’t hard to understand why: the Sunshine State offers sandy beaches, a relaxed culture, and (as its nickname suggests) endless sunshine.
As a result, searching for luxury condos for sale as soon as possible seems like a no-brainer. Before you sign a lease and start packing your things, however, there are several things you should know about luxury condo life in Florida.
- Communal nature: When you move into a condominium, you’re going to have neighbors. If you’ve spent your entire life living on a 10-acre plot of land with nobody around for miles, this change may be hard to handle at first. You’ll undoubtedly be sharing walls and personal spaces with people you don’t know, so make sure you are okay with this potentially-limited privacy and that you’re willing to be social.
- Rules: Living in a condo is similar to living in an apartment in that there are certain rules you’re expected to follow. They vary from community to community — such as whether pets are permitted, where parking is allowed, etc. — so it is essential that you contact your property manager before you make a decision. It always pays to learn as much as you can before signing any legal documentation.
- Expectations: When you agree to become part of a condominium community, you share your money as well as your living space. You’ll be expected to pay a monthly fee that goes into reserves, which is what funds any property maintenance that may be required. While you will definitely be benefitting from this funding if your washing machine breaks or your roof needs repairs, the same goes for your neighbors. It’s a communal pot, so make sure you can afford the extra costs.
Long story short, be sure to do your research before settling on a single luxury condominium community. Make sure you are comfortable with what’s expected of you, and that you can afford this new way of living. When you find the perfect unit in the perfect location, you’ll discover a home that provides a welcoming community to experience, a relaxing way of life, and a support system that understands your needs and wants. In short: paradise.