One is obviously a reflection on our society - many of us just feel safer living in a close community that offers protection of some sort. There is also the fact that most condo owners live up higher than ground level and it is known that more burglaries happen in first floor condos.

A higher proportion of condos are also being built as gated communities these days, so condos offer much more security than a single family dwelling. Many condos also offer 24 hour security patrols or underground parking.

Security is a big factor for all of us, but especially older people who may feel frail. With the baby boomers reaching retirement age, the largest ever population of pensioners will be looking for secure housing.

As age creeps upon us, we want to do fewer chores and have more peace. Another reason why a condo is so appealing as most condo maintenance is looked after by the management. Being able to walk though lawns that are fed, watered and cut by someone else has its appeal, as does swimming in a pool that is always at the perfect Ph balance!

There is another reason why members of the retirement population may like condos; it is easy to find friends in the unit and to visit without too much effort. Many condos also have a balcony, which is about enough outdoors once your back does not let you do the gardening anymore!

Real gardening buffs can search out a condo block that has large balconies and grow vegetables in pots! Make sure that you are able to grow vegetation on your balconies, this 'permission' thing may be an unfamiliar idea for those who are moving from single family dwellings.

Condos always have 'house rules'. They are there to protect rather than to hinder, but they are all individually designed. Rules can be vastly different from one condo unit to another. It would be extremely important to check the rules before you make your decision to buy.

If you find a condo with the type of rules that would fit into your normal lifestyle pattern, then there will be no conflict in your new life - that is if you are planning a change!