Another Look at Condo's

I know there are many benefits to having a condo but recently the problems have become more prevalent than ever. Where do I begin. As a condo owner, one of the biggest problems that I am coming to grips with is a financially uninlightened board. If you have board that cannot adopt to current changes and the does not understand that raising dues is not a cure all and that it can become a detriment for buyers is a huge problem. I am to the point since prices have come down enough that buying a starter cottage can be a great option. I think that this can be another great option for older clients. I have reviewed many condo's in the area and some are paying as much as $550 per mo in downtown areas in Snohomish.
Unless you have money to burn, I think that this is $6600 that I can go in vacation or put in a high risk investment. What have you got to loose since your just giving it away.
Allot if the issue I see ertains to finance. We have issues with conversions being built to low standards and the association has no budget resulting in escalating montly dues, in addition, you have a property management that you never see and do nothing.
Buying a condo has many benefits but just be aware of pitfalls and look at options. If you can get a small yard and a small home on it, you can always pay someone to take care of the yard.