Cooperatives and Condominiums, from Life in the USA: The Complete Guide for Immigrants and Americans

Life in the USA is a complete guide to American life for immigrants and Americans. All materials on this site Copyright © Elliot Essman 2007. All rights reserved.    Home    Back    Next

Life in the USA
American Community
Housing

Cooperatives and Condominiums
With a cooperative (co-op) you own shares in a co-operative association. You lease your home or apartment from the association. You also share in the expenses of running the cooperative including part of the general mortgage for the building or development. You will pay for whatever mortgage you take on to purchase your shares in the co-operative association. A co-op board runs everything, and you must be approved by the board before you will be able to buy your co-op.

With a condominium (condo) you own your home or apartment outright and share the ownership and expenses for "common areas" like the grounds, security facilities, parking and athletic facilities. An association in which you can participate takes responsibility for the common areas.


Next Section: Renting an Apartment

American Community: Chapter Home

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