Finding the continuum condo for sale can be tricky. There are so many choices and so much information available it can seem overwhelming. But, with some time and effort you will find the right place to live. Follow these tips and get started on your search today! 

1) Understand what you’re looking for in your condo.

Are you looking for something specific? Do you want a particular number of bedrooms or bathrooms? What about a certain floor plan or style? Once you know what you need, narrow down your options to just those that fit your needs. Then continue narrowing until you only see one choice left. 

2) Think of yourself as a buyer and not a seller at this point.

You may have been looking for a while now but haven’t yet found exactly what you were looking for. This is a good opportunity to take a fresh look at everything that’s out there. Start from scratch and let yourself dream big. Make sure that you think of all the things that you love about each unit and eliminate anything that doesn’t match up. 

3) Be patient.

The market for condos has slowed considerably over the past two years. It’s still possible to find a great deal on a nice property but it takes time and persistence. Don’t give up if you don’t see results immediately. The best way to get what you want is by being persistent and flexible. 

4) Look beyond the obvious.

If you’re looking to buy a single family home, then you would probably begin your search in the suburbs where houses tend to be larger and more plentiful. The same holds true when searching for condos. Just because a building is located near downtown doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily going to be a better value than one that’s farther away. Keep an open mind and check out properties outside your normal area. 

5) Be realistic in your expectations.

Some people feel like they’ve seen enough condos and want to move forward without really considering their needs. They might be hoping to find a huge space with tons of amenities (i.e., swimming pool, sauna, gym, etc.). These things are nice to have but they aren’t always necessary. In most cases, the size and layout of a condo are determined more by the space needed for living rather than the amount of space used for storage. If you’re thinking of buying a condo, make sure that your expectations are reasonable. 

6) Consider location, location, and location.

When you’re evaluating properties, pay attention to how close they are to public transportation, shopping, schools, sports facilities, parks, hospitals, etc. You may also consider how easy it is to reach these locations. The closer you are, the easier it is to get around. That means fewer trips on the subway or in a car and less time spent commuting. 

7) Check out a few different agents before making a decision.

Although it’s important to hire someone who truly understands real estate laws and practices, it’s also important to choose someone that you’re comfortable with and are confident will work hard on your behalf. Find someone who knows what he or she is doing and isn’t afraid to ask questions. Ask them about their experience and how long they’ve lived in the area. 

8) Get several quotes and compare them.

Ask the agent for three different estimates. You’ll want to receive quotes from at least two other agents as well. Compare the quotes and choose the best price and terms. 

9) Know your budget.

Decide ahead of time what you can afford and stick to it. If you’re expecting to spend thousands every month on rent, you’re going to need to seriously limit your options. Just because you can afford a luxury apartment doesn’t mean that you should settle for one. 

10) Take action fast.

Waiting too long to start your search can lead to disappointment. And, if you wait too long, you won’t even have the chance to save any money. Your ideal condo could already be gone. So, don’t waste your time. Go online and start looking today. 

11) Avoid “for sale” signs.

Unless you have a very narrow set of criteria, avoid looking at condos that are listed for sale. These units may have been previously owned by the current owner and therefore have no history of rental income. They may also be on the market for short-term investments or as part of a “flip.” 

12) Have patience.

Real estate takes time and sometimes nothing happens overnight. Even if you’re able to secure a great deal on a condo, it may take months to actually go through the process of purchasing it. Be prepared to be patient and stay focused during this period. 

13) Choose your team wisely.

You’ll want to work with someone who understands your situation and goals. If you’re buying a condo, you’ll likely also need to work with a lawyer and a title company. 

14) Take advantage of resources.

Many companies offer services specifically geared towards helping first-time homebuyers find their dream homes. Contact these organizations and see what they have to offer.