First time buyers today may find a traditional house beyond
their means, so may be considering buying a flat. Flats in
Guernsey vary from a modest single bedroom flat in a converted
house to a penthouse apartment at the top of a brand new
development. They vary as much in price too, but buying a flat
is a good way for a first time buyer to get their foot on the first
rung of the housing ladder.
The owner of a flat in a smaller development may own a share in
other parts of the building, such as the main structure, hallways,
stairs and gardens. The parts of the property that are shared
between the owners are called common parts, because they are used
by each owner in common with other owners. When maintenance is
required each of the owners pays a share of the total cost of
maintaining the common parts. When larger works are undertaken
the cost can come as quite a shock.
