I have a bmw 530i. so far so good and pleased, however I do have an issue with both front side windows when they are covered in rain on the outside or condensation on the inside, when I open the electric windows to clear the glass, nothing happens, ie the rubber window seal does not touch the glass when opening or closing.
is there a solution to this problem? Thanks.

The fact that the window mechanism moves the glass away from the seal before dropping it down reflects quality in my opinion.

Sometimes prevention is better than cure. As an enthusiastic valeter i can recommend a good quality window cleaner (like autoglym car glass polish) to clean the inside of the window as any dirt or grease absorbs moisture. If you can illiminate the dirt, any condensation that forms will clear much quicker. On the outside, try rain-ex. Any water that hits the window will run off very quickly when the car starts moving. Also make sure you have the recirculating air function switched off and switch the AC on. Hope this helps