Downtown Columbus Condos for Sale

Are you moving to Columbus (or already live here) and are searching for Downtown Columbus Condos for Sale?

You are in luck!

There are a lot of great condos for sale in Downtown Columbus and the surrounding areas(and you can view them here). Before you jump, though, here are a few questions you should ask yourself:

• Where do you want to live? Do you want to be closer to work or closer to fun? What's more important to you, the lifestyle or convenience? 
• Do you need dedicated parking, a garage, or none at all? The answer to this question could affect how much you spend on a condo.
• How effective is the soundproofing? Will you be able to hear your neighbors watching the OSU game every Saturday in fall or the phone conversation with their girlfriend? To find out ask a neighbor to turn on their TV or stereo to a normal volume.
• How is the resale value of the condo? If you get promoted or transferred in 2 years how easy will it be to sell your condo?
• What is the Condo Association or Homeowner's Association like? What are their rules and regulations?
• How are repairs handled?  A little research can help determine how much money you should expect to pay out of pocket for repairs and maintenance.
• What is the rental rate? Are more of the units owner occupied or rented out? This could affect your loan and your enjoyment of your new Downtown Columbus condo.
• What do your condo fees cover? Are there extra amenities? If so are they something you will use?

Not sure where to start on your condo search? Call Vince of Hannon & Graves Keller Williams Classic Properties today (614)313-5243 or email at Vince@HannonAndGraves.com to get the help you need to find the right Downtown Columbus condo for sale to suit your lifestyle and your budget!

View Downtown Columbus Condos for Sale Here

Do I Need a Home Inspection On a Condo

Many people think that because they are buying a condo downtown that they won't need to do a home inspection.

This could be a costly mistake on their part.

We always encourage a home buyer (whether it is a new build in Gahanna, a historic home in German Village, or a condo in Downtown Columbus) to get a home inspection. It is important to get a home inspection on your new condominium for a variety of reasons

• Most people when looking for a new home will spend more time imagining how they will decorate their new home and figuring out if their furniture will fit than checking all the appliances, electrical outlets, walls, and so forth

• There are items that the condo association or HOA will be liable for but there are also items that you will be responsible for and you will want to know that those items are in good working order (or have a heads up if something will need to be replaced so you can budget for that).

• You will want to know if the issues that the condo association are responsible for are in good shape (leaky overhangs, rotting decks, insect damage, poor drainage, etc). Yes, they association is responsible for taking care of certain issues but they may not do it in the time frame you are comfortable with or they may levy a special harassment to rectify issues. 

Even if you consider yourself "handy" or "in the know" it is a wise idea to consult with an expert. Home inspectors do what they do every day and know what to look for. If you aren't sure which home inspector to use consult with your Realtor. They will have a list of inspectors for you to choose from and can guide you towards an inspector with plenty of experience with the type of home you are buying.

Related:
What does a home inspector do?

What Does Pre-Qualification Mean for a Home Loan

One of the terms that can confuse first time home buyers is "pre-qualification". 

What does it mean to be be pre-qualified for a home loan?

Well, the short answer is not much. All pre-qualification means is that a lender has provided a written opinion of the ability of the borrower (first time home buyer) to qualify for a home loan. The loan officer will ask a series of questions about debt (credit cards, car loans, student loans, etc), income, and savings and will make a professional opinion on whether or not the buyer will qualify for a loan. There is no formal application process and the lender can only make a decision based on the information given. 

Getting pre-qualified is good for the buyer to get an idea of what they may be able to afford. When they are ready to take the next step and put an offer in on a home a pre-approval is what will make the difference. A pre-approval happens after the buyer formally applies for a loan and the bank does a more in depth, formal look into the buyer's ability to actually purchase a home.

While pre-qualification is an important first step to take in the home buying process  the pre-approval is what truly matters, especially in markets where the homes are selling quick! A pre-approval is a firmer guarantee for a home seller that a home buyer is able to secure a home loan.

If you are thinking about purchasing a home in Downtown Columbus or the surrounding villages and neighborhoods then contact us today. We have a list of solid, reliable lenders who have years of experience to help you get the home you deserve.