Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Are you thinking about buying a condo? The first thing you should do before you buy that condo is to check out the development's rules and regulations and find out how the "condo cartel" controls that complex.

This is really important because a good number of developments have a great deal of rules and regulations. Everything from whether or not you can have a pet, what types of plants and furniture you can have on your terrace or balcony, how many people you are allowed to have at your home for a fiesta, and yes, there is more than one that does stipulate that.

So remember, when looking at a condo seriously and before making an offer, get a copy of the by-laws and the minutes from the last year of HOA (home owner's association) meetings, some are even available online or the seller's agent should be able to get you a copy. This way there are no surprises when you move into your new place.

To learn more about the featured property, Villa del Sol, visit Laura's real estate website.

Be sure to check Laura's YouTube channel, TVPuertoVallarta, regularly for new episodes of 'The Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit Real Estate Vlog.' You can also post your comments about this (or any other) episode, ask questions, or suggest a topic for an upcoming video.