Ten questions about the building that almost nobody asks
The stuff that never makes the listing — and decides what living there actually feels like.
Condo · 12 points
Who it’s for
For anyone who loved the unit and still doesn’t know a thing about the building.
What’s on the list
- 1
What year was the building finished, and when was the last façade restoration and waterproofing?
- 2
When were the plumbing and the electrical replaced? Those are the two repairs that turn into assessments.
- 3
How many elevators, what year are they, and how often do they go down?
- 4
Any known water intrusion, and in which unit lines? Ask it exactly that bluntly.
- 5
Is the parking assigned, deeded, or valet — and how many spaces come with this unit?
- 6
What’s the move-in policy? Which days, what hours, how much deposit, and how you reserve the elevator.
- 7
Which amenities are down right now, and when are they coming back? Ask about the pool, the gym and the deck.
- 8
How loud is it, really? Come back on a weekday afternoon and again on a Saturday night before you decide.
- 9
What’s going up nearby? A view is never guaranteed unless the land in front of you can’t be developed anymore.
- 10
What does security actually look like — 24-hour front desk, cameras, garage access control, package protocol?
- 11
Professional management or self-managed, and who picks up the phone when something breaks at 2 a.m.?
- 12
Talk to two residents who aren’t the seller. Best inspection there is, and it’s free.
Want more checklists like this?
Optional. Leave your email and Jordan will send you practical material like this checklist. You’ll first get an email to confirm your subscription, and you can unsubscribe any time.
Your situation doesn’t fit a checklist? Message Jordan or book 15 minutes.