Boston luxury condos for sale: How to determine the quality of a Boston condo

For some potential Boston luxury high rise condo owners, condos are extremely appealing because they often offer a variety of amenities and tend to require less upkeep than single-family homes. However, there are still a few details you should consider about each condo you look at before deciding if it’s right for you. When searching for Boston high rise condo, keep these 5 factors in mind to determine if the unit is up to your standards.

1. Floors

Generally, high-risers meet a higher design standard than low-rise or mid-rise buildings. Here’s a floor breakdown:

Low-rise = 1 to 6 stories
Mid-rise = 7 to 12 stories
High-rise = 13 stories and above

To ensure a unit is on the floor you desire, review the building plan. Sometimes people are shocked to find out their unit is actually two levels lower than expected. This can occur if the first two floors are below street grade.

2. Floor Plan

This blueprint shows the features of surrounding condos and the specific location of the one you’re considering. To get a sense of passing traffic on a given floor, assess its number of units. Also, determine the unit’s location relative to the elevator and garbage chute.

3. Square Footage

It’s important to understand how a high rise condo unit is measured. Some developers measure from exterior walls, adding unusable space to the total amount. Others include outdoor space, such as a balcony, hallway, or storage area. Such calculations can add 10 to 40 percent additional footage, giving you the erroneous impression of a larger unit.

4. Operation

Test the plumbing by opening all faucets, make sure the water pressure and drainage are adequate, and check the air conditioning system to make sure it functions optimally. Spots on walls and ceilings indicate leakage. Ensure all doors and cabinets open and close properly. Being thorough spares future surprises.

5. Offering Plan

If there’s a “Special Risks” section in the offering plan, take note of how your unit could be jeopardized. Review the recreational facilities regarding size, equipment, and outdoor lighting for athletic courts.

Your clues to high-quality appliances are brand names. The offering plan specifies manufacturers and models. A call to each supplier can tell you whether an item is top-quality or outdated. You can use this strategy to glean information about an air conditioner, water heater, and various appliances in the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room.

Make sure the amenities you expect are documented. Regarding insulation and noise, double-pane windows outperform single panes. Ensure the finishes promised are identical to those in the offering plan. If you see the words “or equivalent,” this is a red flag for possible substitution.