What is a primary characteristic of a condominium?

A primary characteristic of a condominium is ownership of individual units with shared common areas. This means that in a condominium, a person owns their specific unit and has a shared interest in the common areas of the property, such as hallways, gardens, and recreational facilities. This form of ownership allows for both private ownership and communal living, which is a defining aspect of condominium complexes.

The structure of condominiums typically includes a homeowner association (HOA) that manages the common areas and enforces community rules. This arrangement allows individuals to own their homes while benefiting from shared amenities and costs associated with maintenance and upkeep of the common areas. The balance of private and communal ownership is what distinguishes condominiums from other types of real estate, such as single-family homes or rental properties.