I am purchasing a townhouse that has a stucco-like finish on the ceilings...I have been told that is known as a "popcorn ceiling" and is common. Perhaps the folks who put it up were unskilled, but I think it is rather ugly and would like to remove it. Must I remove it and then install new drywall? Would it be easier/less expensive to have the popcorn finish redone? If it is installed properly, what is the life expectancy? Sincere thanks, Dominick.