rent and high maintenance co-ops

how is maintenance determined? If by share- is it proportionate?

Maintenance is charged based on the number of shares owned which are determined by various factors. Some of the major ones are square feet of apt, the floor the apt is on, and if there is outdoor space for the apt. I have heard the many years ago a general rule was to expect $1/ sqft however I have not seen anything that cheap. Right now for a full service building on ues I pay about $1.6/ sqft if anyone has comparison information please post.

what does maintenance generally include? repairs? some of these coops charge over 1k for a 1BR and I just don't see where that money goes.

Real estate taxes, underlying mortgage interest for the co op, maintainence of the common areas (structure, lobby, roof, etc.), payroll for doormen and others, management fees....it goes on and on. However, I firmly believe that you should review the buildings financial information to see where your money is going.

This is why it's important to check the financials of the bldg.. before you sign on the dotted line. I