The unit matters. The building may matter even more.
Oceanfront condos can make beach ownership easy and enjoyable, but you are buying into a shared building and shared financial obligations. A beautiful renovated unit does not compensate for weak association finances or major deferred maintenance.
Ask for the current budget, recent financial statements, reserve information or reserve study if available, insurance summary, governing documents, recent board and owner meeting minutes, current assessments and notices of planned capital projects.
When were the roof, elevators, exterior envelope, balconies, windows, plumbing and major mechanical systems last repaired or replaced? Are there active leaks, structural projects or insurance claims? How are major projects funded?
A lower HOA fee is not automatically better. Determine what the fee includes and whether the association is adequately funding predictable long-term work. Compare total annual ownership cost rather than fee alone.
Coastal insurance markets can change. Ask what the association policy covers, what the unit owner must insure, the deductibles that could affect owners and whether recent premiums have materially changed. Have your own insurance professional quote the specific unit before your contingency period expires.
If rentals matter, verify minimum stays, management restrictions and any owner-use limits. If financing, confirm early that your lender is comfortable with the building; condo-project characteristics can affect loan options.