When you own a condo or townhouse with an association there is minimal exterior maintenance. The only item you are responsible for is your garden.
When the buildings are connected in an association the association will cover the roof, siding, lawn maintenance, snow removal, and some landscaping. Generally speaking the association will provide you with mulch and trim trees and shrubs once a year.
It is important to remember that your main expenses when purchasing this type of home is your windows, and HVAC system.