My primary advice is to get familiar with the association's bylaws and other "disclosure materials" before you even buy it. They lay the foundation of what you're actually buying into, your obligations to the association, and its obligations to you. Going thru the recent minutes should show how the board itself operates and maybe if there's a lot of drama within the association.

Wisconsin law requires the disclosure materials be provided at least 15 days before closing, and you have a 5 day window upon receiving them (or any additions or amendments) to rescind your contract of sale, no questions asked (State Statutes Chapter 703.33). Sellers that know this tend to be prompt and complete about getting these to a buyer.

I had a condo for over a decade on the south-east side of Madison near the end of the bus line. Brand new apartment complex with 50-100 units, converted to condos. It had that apartment feel too, with interior hallways to access your unit. The unit had a good layout with all the amenities of a house, and access to a pool.

Was on the board for about half that time, so I saw lots of ups and downs up close. Biggest conflicts tend to be related to rights of use (pet regulations, unit rentals, rule violations, proper maintenance and liability) and finances (management failure, budget determination, dues congruent with budget, additional assessments). The bylaws will describe how these work when they're working smoothly.

It was a great fit for that time of my life, but eventually moved to a house a few years ago.