01
Governing documents
Read the declaration, bylaws, articles, rules, amendments and recorded restrictions. Confirm pets, leasing, vehicles, guests, alterations, approval procedures and owner responsibilities from current documents.
02
Budgets, financials and reserves
Compare current budgets, year-to-date financials, reserve schedules, delinquency information, recent minutes and known capital plans. A low regular fee does not establish lower long-term cost.
03
Milestone inspections and structural reserves
Determine whether Florida milestone-inspection and structural-integrity-reserve-study requirements apply. Obtain the current reports, summaries, repair plans and funding response; use legal and engineering advice for interpretation.
04
Insurance
Review the association master policy, deductibles and exclusions with a qualified insurance professional. Obtain unit-owner and possible flood quotes for the exact unit before contractual deadlines.
05
Assessments and major projects
Ask about approved, pending and discussed assessments, loans, repairs and insurance claims. Review minutes and contracts rather than relying only on an estoppel or verbal answer.
06
Unit and common-element inspection
Inspect the unit and accessible relevant components. Ask about roofs, structure, balconies, windows, plumbing, electrical, elevators, fire systems, drainage and prior water intrusion.
07
Financing and project eligibility
The buyer and unit may qualify while the condominium project does not meet a lender's requirements. Start project review early and do not assume a prior loan proves current eligibility.
08
Parking, storage, pets and rentals
Confirm deeded, assigned or licensed rights and all approval procedures. Rental and pet claims should come from current documents and applicable law, not a prior listing.
09
Flood, wind and evacuation
Use the exact address for FEMA flood research and the local evacuation-zone tool. These are separate systems. Plan for wind, water, power loss, access and association responsibilities.
10
Closing file
Keep the contract, disclosures, association package, inspection reports, insurance, lender conditions, title materials and written answers together. Track receipt dates and contractual deadlines.
Source methodology
Verify current information before relying on it
This guide uses official government, association or community sources where available. Rules, fees, insurance, inspections, amenities and market conditions can change. Review the exact property, current association records and advice from appropriately qualified professionals.
Direct answers
Frequently asked questions
Are condo fees fixed?
No. Budgets, insurance, contracts, repairs and reserve needs change. Review the current budget and known future obligations.
Does every Florida condo need a milestone inspection?
No. Applicability depends on statutory criteria and the building. Verify the exact condominium and current law.
Does an upper-floor unit eliminate flood concerns?
No. Building access, common elements, utilities, insurance, lending and post-storm operations can still be affected.
Can a buyer rely on a listing's rental or pet description?
No. Verify current recorded documents, association policies and applicable government rules.