Going Against Everyone's Advice

[wolfcaroling]

So, after self medicating with some carbs and taking into consideration Benn's feelings, I have agreed to make an offer on Option 1. Benn likes the deck better than the yard, because he feels that it looks nicer and that he could actually have people over for a barbecue, instead of having a shaggy little yard that smells like dog pee. He's anxious

Comments

[bromache]

(Decided to comment here again rather than Facebook -- that was getting too confusing!)

Well, as I said before, I like the place! The lack of yard was the one drawback I could see, but if that isn't holding you back, then I certainly don't think you're crazy. The pool seems like a big pro, plus it's clean and new-looking. Them covering the maintenance fees is a big bonus too. Oh, and I forgot to mention before, but I like that the homes seem to be semi-detached rather than rowhouse-type townhouses. That will give you more privacy and space. I checked the ad again and it doesn't mention the type of heat, but I'll guess electric. If so, you'll have a decent-sized electric bill (maybe $200 a month on average?), but it shouldn't be too bad since the winters aren't so cold there. (Guessing based on my own bills here, in a similar-sized townhouse.) What do the maintenance fees cover? (This is more my own curiosity about condos in general, for future reference.)

Fingers crossed that this one works out for you!

[wolfcaroling]

Yeah, everything is electric - stove, heat, hot water heater etc. The maintenance fees cover the renovations to the complex, use of the pool and playgrounds, and maintenance of the buildings/grounds.

Your bill is usually 200? Yipes. I was hoping for closer to 100 or 150.

[bromache]

Yup, on average. Higher in the winter and lower in the summer, and we're pretty conservative with gas and electricity both. But that's taking into account the COLD Ontario winters and HOT summers, so heat and a/c can add up. Oh, and hot water washes for cloth diapers. Yours will likely be lower, so your guess may be right on. Hopefully!

Okay, I figured those things were the basics for maintenance fees. Good to know. Thanks!