I'll take "Overpriced Condos" for 160K, Alex...

I sent via certified mail my letter to the apartment complex owner his notice of my intention to extend my lease up to 270 days after February 15th. See, like over 50,000 other apartment units in the past five years in the Tampa Bay area, my 70-or-so unit complex is going condo.

About six months ago our apartment complex was sold to a new owner who lives in Miami. At the time we were told that there was no plans to turn the complex into condos. Yeah, right! That was a bunch of B.S. if I ever heard it. I'm sure the plan all along was to "flip" the complex and condo it for a quick buck.

It's a good neighborhood with low crime, close to Bayshore's four-mile long sidewalk (perfect for cycling, walking, running or blading), shady from big trees. For me it's inexpensive and just 15 minutes from work and I like it as an apartment - but not as a condo. The buildings were built in the 1960s, and even with cosmetic upgrades such as all-new dry-wall, new hardwood floors, and new appliances I think $159,900 is a bit much for a 700 square foot one bedroom condo. Especially when there's so many better options around.

I'll live here for the $545 I'm play here a month and find a better deal - at least I got about 235 or so days to do so.