When shopping Ft Myers FL homes for sale one of the first questions is single family or Condominium?  For many the answer is simple.  One is clearly right and the other is wrong.  Families with young children for instance find the condominium situation to be very difficult.  For those, however, who are considering the pros and cons, the issue often arises that condominium fees are generally much higher that subdivision HOA fees.  First let me point out that in both cases the fees directly pay for benefits and services.  Generally they are controlled by a board of trustees comprised of members of the community who seek to provide the most benefit for the least money possible.  Condominium fees out of necessity cover a number of items which are generally not covered in subdivisions.  Each association is different but I will list the most common.

• Exterior building maintenance
• Insurance for the structure
• All grounds maintenance

Items that are common to both might be:

• Street lighting
• Common facilities maintenance (pools, work out facilities, playgrounds, etc.)
• Basic Cable Television

These fees vary dramatically from one development to another.  Generally they correspond directly with the amenities offered but other factors such as the size of the development have a very real impact.  When shopping Ft Myers FL Homes for sale my first advice is always to establish a budget which includes all of these items.  Next consider what level of amenities you will likely be able to afford and shop within those guidelines.  It is not uncommon to run across people that say that they want resort style amenities which commonly have a monthly price tag of $600.00 to $700.00 but who only have a total budget (including mortgage payment) of $1,000.00 per month.

Whenever buying a condominium, the sale is contingent upon review of the condominium documents.  Always review these carefully and pay particular attention to the operating statement and the roster of delinquent fees.  Current conditions have left many associations in difficult positions and you want to make sure that you are not buying into a nightmare scenario that will require assessments to be levied.  There are many developments out there that are viable and offer a carefree lifestyle.  This is an important part of the service we provide.  Our job is to present you with all the information which should help you to make informed, good decisions about the living situation that is right for you.