What to Know About Moving From a House to a Condo

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to downsize from a house to a condo. Maybe you're looking for something a little more affordable to maintain, or perhaps you simply don't need the space. Or maybe you're interested in moving into the city from the 'burbs.

Whatever the case may be, there are a few important things to know about making this kind of switch to prepare you for the change, including both the good and the bad.

Community Vibe

Condos are sort of like little communities with all sorts of regular events and activities that residents can participate in. Depending on your social needs, these types of events can be a great thing.

If you love the idea of living in a mini community without having to venture out too far, a condo can be the perfect alternative to living in a house.

More Security

One of the best things about living in a condo is the security features. Condos typically come with 24-hour security guards, alarm systems, camera systems, door codes, key fobs, and other security layers that keep all residents safe. 

Accessibility

If you or someone in your household has mobility issues, you don't have to worry about making significant changes to your home and all the money that comes with these changes. Condos are required to ensure that they're accessible for those in wheelchairs or those who have difficulty walking. For this reason, condos make great options for retirees and older folks.

Less Privacy

If you're moving from a single-family home, you may have taken for granted how much space you have between yourself and your neighbours. Going from a stand-alone home to shared walls may require some getting used to.

Understand that you may lose some privacy when going from a home to a condo.

More Rules With Pets

If you are like many other Torontonians who have a furry family member, consider the rules that a condo may have that could affect you and your pet. Many condo corporations have stringent rules about the type of animals allowed in the building, their size, and how many pets are allowed in each unit. Make sure your pet meets the criteria before buying a condo.

It's also important to understand the added limitations when it comes to having a pet. For instance, you can't just open the back door and let your pet out. If you have a larger dog, going up and down the elevator may be a bit of a nuisance.

These are all things to keep in mind when bringing your pet with you when you move.

Declutter

Downsizing to a condo will inevitably require that you declutter quite a bit. This may entail downsizing your possessions. If you’ve collected years' worth of belongings, you may need to decide what to keep and what to toss or give away.

Condo Fees

You already know that condo fees will be added to your monthly bills, but some condos charge much higher condo fees than others. Consider the amenities that you need and are willing to pay for.

For instance, if you don't plan on using things like a pool, pet spa, or other amenities that could spike condo fees, consider a condo with fewer amenities that charges lower condo fees as a result.

Condo fees should always be factored into your monthly budget.