Condominiums: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'condominium' comes from Latin, where 'con' means 'together' and 'dominium' means 'lordship' or 'ownership'.
• The term was first used in the United States in the 1960s to describe a new way of housing and shared ownership.
• In some countries, different terms like 'strata titles' or 'shared ownership' are used to describe similar living arrangements.

Real Estate

• Condominiums often provide amenities such as pools, gyms, and security services, making them attractive to buyers.
• They typically have homeowners' associations (HOAs) that manage maintenance and communal areas, helping everyone uphold property value.
• Many urban areas rely on condominiums to increase housing density while allowing residents to live closer to city centers.

Cultural Impact

• In places like New York City, condominiums represent a shift in affordable housing and luxury living, changing skyline and community dynamics.
• Pop culture often portrays condo living as trendy and chic, reflecting modern lifestyles focused on convenience.
• Television shows and movies frequently highlight the social life of condo residents, illustrating communal living experiences and relationships.

Legal Aspects

• Owning a condominium involves understanding a complex set of laws and regulations, differing by region and country.
• Buyers of condominiums usually must agree to a set of rules created by the HOA, which govern everything from landscaping to noise levels.
• Disputes among condo owners can lead to legal battles, especially concerning shared responsibilities and maintenance duties.

Global Variations

• In different cultures, the concept of shared living varies; for instance, in Japan, capsule hotels provide a similar close-quarters living experience.
• Many European cities feature condominiums, often in the form of converted historic buildings, blending modern living with rich heritage.
• Sustainable building movements across the globe utilize condominium living as a method to reduce individual carbon footprints.

At rank #25,168, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25165 uncommitted
• 25166 climatology
• 25167 alliteration
• 25168 condominiums
• 25169 plinth
• 25170 centralizing
• 25171 brutish
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