Thoughts on condos?

[Jerry Poon]

I'm a newbie and I'm just getting started. What are you thoughts on getting a condo as your first property? After listening to a few podcasts, it seems like a good idea to stay away from them due to HOA fees. Is there any way to force the HOA fee on the tenant? I'm also in the Southern California region, and they are the only things I can really afford if I want to stay in a decent area. I'd love to know what you all think.