64 — Friday, September 4, 1998 — North Shore News Consider co FOR renters who are tired of paying down someone else’s mort- gage, but may not be able to afford one of the newer condomini- ums on the market, there is another option: conversion condos. It’s a growing trend in the Lower Mainland: refurbish- ing and selling apartmenis or townhomes that previously were rental units. Before you seriously con- sider the purchase of 2 con- version unit, here are some things to think about: pecially with older build- you must pay careful attention to the condition of the building. In what condi- tion is the roof and exterior of the building? Are vou buy- ing a lot of deterred mainte- nance with the purchase of Will furure repair and maintenance costs dra- matically increase your fiuan- cial burden? More than with any other type of purcaase, vou need a buildiag inspec- tion before deciding to buy a conversion unit. B Price of the unit: Are appli- arices included? How are the suites finished, and what quality of materials are u How does the asked price Be your own ourglar From page $7 enough to go through rxo studs, making sure that the pipe wii fit snugly in this hole. What you've done here is effectively increased the length and effectiveness of your dead- bolt. To make it even stronger you may want to have a metal plate installed around the dead-bolt housing, on the door, itself. This will increase the integrity of the door. All of the things I have mentioned are intended to be guidelines. There are lots of other ways that you can prevent break-i -ins, most of which are simple and inexpensive and just require a little bit of creative thought. Just pretend that you are the burglar and think of the ways thar you might get into your home or business, then climi- nate or make chose ways as dif ficult and unappealing as you can. Whatever vou do, it is important that you feel com- fortable with these deterrents. After all, it your home, regardless of whether you rent or own and there is no need tor vou to feel like a prisoner. There are other options av able from various companies in the Lower Mainland that are less obtrusive. Ask around. — Heinz Krents is the owner of KeepSafe Systems, a Vancouver-based company which serves the entire Lower Mainland, He will provide fur- ther information and security advice as space allows. ndominium conversions compare with similar condo er co-op units on the mark @ Location of the buildin Does the location ensure high probability of continued mar- ker demand? Location has much to do with future mar- ER can store their craft. ket value. Is it close to shops ands restaurants? Near to schools and other facilities that are important to vour tamily or to others who may buy vour home in the future? @ Current market conditions: Is this a good time to buy? Is there a high demand tor condo and co-op units, or are many such units sitting on the market? B Your income level: Can vou attord to buy? Can you quali- Building boathouses CONSTRUCTION workers have been busy near Mosquito Creek marina this summer, building a new boathouse. The North Shore's fong stretc!: of waterfront is dotted with marinas and yacht clubs where boaters Customize Your New Townhome With Up To $5,000!" oh. La La! You've always wanted a brand new townhome. your own bright breakfast nook, spacious deck or patio, cozy gas fireplace, outstanding views... and your won front and back doors! With up to $5,000" in your pocket, you can stop dreaming and start decorating! Our 4.49% interest rate makes your decision that much easier. Move in today! 1, 2 & 3 bedroom townhomes in Maillardville from only "112, 9OO.....s: Show Homes Open Daily aes (except fridays) 1413 Brunette Coquitlam 540-8869 © wewwmlsca, fv for financing? Will your immediate and future income level provide you with the ability to support: mortgage payments that might excced current levels of rent, plus monthly maintenance fees.