Notre Dame Condos for Sale & Buyer’s Guide

There isn't one useful “average” price because the Notre Dame condo market includes older established communities, newer construction, luxury units and townhomes. Location, size, parking, condition and the individual development can all have a significant effect on value.

I prefer looking at recent sales within the same community — and ideally similar floor plans — rather than relying only on a broad price-per-square-foot number.

Several communities are adjacent to or within a practical walk of campus, including developments around Eddy Street, Notre Dame Avenue and South Bend Avenue. But “close” and “walkable” aren't always the same thing.

If walking matters, I recommend comparing the actual route and campus access point rather than relying only on how a listing describes the location.

Maybe — but don't assume you can. Rental policies vary by condominium association. Some communities may permit rentals while others have minimum lease terms, rental caps, approval requirements or restrictions that affect short-term and game-day rentals.

If rental income is part of your purchase decision, verify the current governing documents before building projected income into the numbers.

HOA fees vary substantially by development and by what the association provides. Comparing the monthly number alone can be misleading.

I want buyers to understand what the fee covers, the association's reserves, master insurance, maintenance responsibilities, planned capital projects and whether any assessments are pending or being discussed.

Depending on the buyer, property and loan program, second-home financing may be an option. Condo financing can involve additional review because the lender may also evaluate the condominium association, master insurance and project eligibility.

Getting those questions addressed early can be especially useful when you're comparing several communities.

Sometimes it does, and sometimes renting is the better fit. The decision depends on how long you expect to own, how the property will be used, carrying costs, HOA rules, financing and what you may want to do with the property after your student graduates.

I think it's more useful to compare both options than to start with the assumption that buying is automatically better.

Some are, particularly properties that have been used as second homes or game-day residences, but furnishings should never be assumed to be included.

If furniture matters to you, confirm exactly what remains with the property and make sure any included items are clearly addressed in the purchase agreement.

More important than many buyers initially expect. A parking setup that works perfectly for two owners during a normal week can feel very different when friends and family arrive for a football weekend.

Look at assigned spaces, garages, guest parking, street restrictions and how the surrounding area changes during major campus events.

Yes. Many Notre Dame-area buyers live out of state, and much of the search, showing, document review and transaction process can be handled remotely.

The important part is making sure you're getting enough information about the things listing photos don't show — location, parking, common areas, condition, HOA documents and how the property actually fits the way you plan to use it.

There really isn't one community that's best for everyone. Someone buying primarily for football weekends may prioritize walkability very differently than a parent, investor or buyer looking for a larger second home.

I'm more interested in figuring out which communities fit your priorities for location, budget, parking, rental flexibility, amenities and space — and then comparing the available units within those communities.