If you move in to your fabulous townhome with your lovable Great Dane ..and you find out later that there are pet restrictions and that you're only allowed a pup who weighs a maximum of 30 pounds...you're going to have to make a terrible decision.

And who is responsible for exterior painting...or windows ? Don't assume it's the Condo Corporation...cuz it often isn't. Those modest condo fees are probably low for good reason.

Your Realtor should know what the Status Certificate covers so that they can inform you of any property restrictions prior to buying...but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't read the document yourself.

AND THIS ONE'S REALLY IMPORTANT... MAKE SURE THAT IF THERE HAVE BEEN ANY NOTICES OF MEETINGS...OR EXTRA EXPENSES THAT OWNERS MAY HAVE TO INCUR...OR REVISIONS OF ANY KIND TO THE DOCUMENT PRIOR TO YOU MOVING IN...THAT YOU'RE NOTIFIED.

Buying a home of any kind is a huge investment . It doesn't take a lot of time to read the fine print and ask questions...and you'll feel a lot less angst after you move in...you'll know what you're paying for.