A blind man knows when the sun is shining, and even a casual observer can spot a poorly operated condominium association. A lax set of rules and regulations, perceptually poor upkeep, higher than usual percentage of rentals, restrictive pet policies, and an overall lack of cache all can negatively effect an association and may be harmful to the resale value of any given condominium within the association.

The "status quo" of any existing association can be difficult to overturn, but often is the first step necessary in the process of making-over a Philadelphia condo association. Often, new board members, rules and regulations, and budgets need to be reviewed and implemented. Money must be spent for capital improvements on an ongoing basis. Condominium buildings are like cars, fine clothes, and offspring- they all need constant upkeep for optimal performance It would be reasonable to assume that "Mr. Condo Neglect" has the direct phone number to "Mr. Lower Resale Values"- and probably has him on speed-dial.

In addition, a new outside management company can be a breath of fresh air for an existing condominium association. A new set of eyes on the management of expenses, reviewing the cost of various amenities, actively pursuing delinquent accounts, and getting new bids on big ticket items like the master insurance policy can help strengthen the effectiveness of many condo associations.

Upgrading common elements is always essential to maintaining or recapturing the cache of any given condominium building. Curb appeal, and the impressions made by some of the common elements of any give condo association do indeed set a tone, and a reflect upon a buyers perception. Often times, buyers have made up their mind as to whether or not they are interested in a condominium unit, prior to even stepping foot in that unit. In many cases, you can indeed judge a book by its cover. Old for Old Sake can indeed be a strong attraction to many buyers (think Pre-War Condos), but that old had better be in tip top shape, and those decisions are made by the condo board.

A lax condominium board that doesn't enforce rules, regulations, or have a system in place to limit the ratio of tenants to owners can indeed wreak havoc on the values of condos within that association. And from time to time, that association needs to review policies that best fits the needs and goals of condo owners. Condominium associations do indeed play a role in the value of its units, and many perspective buyers will take a good hard look at how any given association is operating in order to assess the value, or lack thereof for the condo being considered.