Dear M.A.: Luxury versions, low cost models, and those in between are the types of condos found in big cities, near suburbs, and resort areas. They come in all sizes and shapes. Condominium developments are sprouting up as you can see every time you drive down the freeway. The condominium lifestyle is very popular.

Let's start with the definition of a condominium association:

Membership is mandatory and automatic upon purchase of a unit in a condo association.

All owners are bound by the condominium association's governing documents.

Mandatory assessments, called maintenance or condo fees, are charged to each owner to operate and maintain the condominium's property.

Use and enjoyment of the property are for all owners.

What are the advantages of the condominium lifestyle?

You can be building equity instead of paying rent. Owning your own home is a wise investment.

Interest on your mortgage loan may be an allowable income tax deduction.

You can enjoy the lifestyle of freedom from performing exterior maintenance.

The cost of recreational facilities is shared. Many condominiums offer amenities that you may not be able to afford on your own.

Security systems are "built in." Because of the proximity of your neighbors, when you take a vacation, just lock your door and go!

Social activities may be organized for all ages and occasions.

You may have a voice in the management by offering your services to the board of directors or special committees.

The lifestyle of condominium ownership is very popular. The association makes sure the property's appearance is professionally maintained. An added benefit is that the property values normally increase.

So what's the downside?

You may have to "get used to" the lifestyle.

There are restrictions about what you can do.

You may disagree with your neighbors.

Assessments (maintenance fees) and special assessments are charged to all owners. You may not have any control over them.

The board controls colors and styles of the building exteriors and choices of landscape plantings.

Limited parking may be an inconvenience.

The handicapped may have difficulty navigating the environment.

The board of directors makes decisions in a condominium association. Therefore, you may not be able to have a direct influence on those decisions. You may not like the board's decisions and letting go of that control can be difficult for some people.

How different is the lifestyle of a condo from living in your own single-family home? "Good-different" if you buy a condominium to reap the benefits you know it can offer. "Bad-different" if you are unaware that there are differences or you have no intention of conforming. Depending on your attitude, you can enjoy your new condominium or you could be annoyed on a daily basis.

You can appreciate that you don't carry the entire burden, once you understand that you are sharing the operation and maintenance of your home with all the other owners in the condominium association. You have time to explore your other interests.

Do your homework by reading, or having your attorney read, the governing documents and rules. Then you will know the advantages and disadvantages of lifestyle in your particular condominium before you buy it.