As far as I can see, condo ownership is the worst of both worlds.  You have the responsibility of an owner, but little say in decisions as to how the building is maintained -- and the spectre of a special assessment is always looming.  I can appreciate that many people have been priced out of the traditional housing market, and I can also appreciate that many others do not like the responsibility of snow removal and yard maintenance.

When I get too old to maintain my own home, I plan to rent.  Condos strike me as a very poor investment in most cases.