Once you've found that townhouse you want to buy the next step you'll take is to question the representative of the homeowners association. You should try to learn as much as you can.

One thing in particular you should inquire about is the common areas. This would include pools, spas, exercise equipment, tennis courts and other recreational facilities. Try to see these units with your own eyes. You'll be looking at them to determine how well they have been maintained. If they look worn and half the equipment is broken with the rest strewn helter skelter about the property then maybe the unit doesn't have a real good maintenance history.

If the units look fine then try to find out what hours they are available for use. It doesn't do you a lot of good if the available hours don't fit well with your schedule.