When buying a condominium in Boston, asking the right questions helps you avoid unexpected costs, structural issues, and restrictive rules.

Here are the top 10 questions to ask before purchasing a Boston condo:

Financial & Association Health

- What is the current monthly condo fee, and what exactly does it cover?
  - - Fees typically cover water, sewer, master insurance, and common area maintenance.
    - In Boston, older brownstones may have lower fees, but fewer amenities compared to modern high-rises. [Bostonreb.com,1, 2]
- What is the total amount currently held in the building’s reserve fund?
  - - A healthy fund should generally hold at least 10% to 25% of the association’s annual budget.
    - Low reserves increase your risk of a sudden financial hit. [1]
- Are there any planned, passed, or recently completed special assessments?
  - - Special assessments are one-time charges for major repairs like roofs, elevators, or brick repointing.
    - Request the last two years of condo association meeting minutes to spot upcoming projects. [1, 2, 3]

Building & Unit Operations

- What are the rules regarding renting out the unit?
  - - Many Boston associations restrict short-term rentals (like Airbnb) or limit the total percentage of rented units.
    - High investor-to-owner ratios can make it harder for future buyers to secure conventional mortgages. [1, 2]
- Is the building professionally managed, or is it self-managed?
  - - Small Boston associations (2 to 4 units) are usually self-managed by the co-owners to save money.
    - Larger buildings require professional management companies to handle complex maintenance schedules. [1, 2]
- What is the pet policy for owners and tenants?
  - - Associations can restrict the number, size, weight, or specific breeds of pets allowed.
    - Do not assume a pet-friendly building allows your specific dog without verifying the bylaws. [1, 2]

Structure & Location-Specifics

- How old are the major structural elements and mechanical systems?
  - - Ask specifically about the roof, heating/cooling systems, elevators, and historical brick masonry.
    - Replacing a roof on a classic Back Bay or South End brownstone can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Is dedicated parking included, and what is its legal deed status?
  - - Parking in Boston is a premium commodity that can add significant value to the property.
    - Verify if the spot is explicitly deeded to the unit, an assigned space, or a rented easement. [1]
- What are the storage options and policies for common areas?
  - - Look for dedicated basement lockers, bike rooms, and restrictions on storing items in hallways.
    - Ensure your large belongings can actually fit through tight, historic stairwells if there is no elevator.
- Are there any active or resolved legal disputes involving the HOA?
  - - Active lawsuits between owners, developers, or neighbors can completely stall your mortgage approval process.
    - Request a copy of the 6D certificate early in the closing process to prove all outstanding fees are clear. [1]

If you are currently evaluating a specific property, let me know which Boston neighborhood it is in, the size of the building (e.g., a 3-unit brownstone or a large high-rise), or any specific red flags you have noticed so I can tailor the next steps for you.

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