Buying a Co-op or Condo? Here's a Checklist You Can't Miss

April 7, 2015 — Rents in New York City continue their upward trend. That's why, if you've got the money and the credit, you should consider investing in either a co-op or condo. It's a huge commitment, sure, and that's why you need to be sharp or get savvy when it comes to scrutinizing not just the apartments you're considering, but also the neighborhoods they are in. Unless you're checking out a place on the top floor, try to get an appointment to view it between 6 and 7 P.M. People will be home by then so you'll get a better sense of whether the people upstairs stomp up and down the place like a bunch of clomping horses. Run the taps on the sinks and bathtub. Make sure the water pressure is what you're used to and not a sad trickle that is barely going to rinse off soap — and take note of how long you have to wait before the hot water is actually hot. While you're at it, give the toilet a flush. What's the laundry situation? Is it a walkup? If so, how far do you have to go back and forth with heavy bags of laundry? Where's the best deli? The closest supermarket? Is there a bug problem? Yes, including bedbugs. What about rodents? And, perhaps one of the most important things (besides laundry): where is the nearest subway? Because if you find a place with which you fall in love at first sight, the honeymoon will be over sooner than expected if you find yourself enduring a soul-sucking commute. Yes, we're talking about quality of life, and Brickunderground has got you covered with 10 factors to check out before you sign on the dotted line.

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