Hiring a knowledgeable realtor who understands the rules and regulations of strata properties, can be a massive benefit to those looking to buy into the Vancouver condo marketplace. From depreciation reports to financial understandings, strata documents to legal opinions, future assessments and more - there is a lot that goes into the details of a strata and not very many individuals are aware of such things.

Which is why having a real estate agent who can help you map your way through strata documents will better ensure you are choosing the property that will best represent your purchase, and protect you from misunderstandings as it pertains to what the strata is responsible for, and what the homeowners will need to address on their own.

Strata Misunderstanding Costs Homeowners a Lot

It wasn’t too long ago that a large amount of condos in Vancouver underwent rain-screening after many buildings were found unfit for the weather conditions. These “leaky condos” – as they became known as - caused condo owners an immense amount of grief, as well as cost them a fortune after they discovered that fixing the issue was not something their strata was responsible for.

The same held true when there were multiple incidences of washing machines overflowing in various Vancouver condos, causing costly damage to the condos below. Once again, the condo stratas were found not responsible for the damage this created for condo owners, and another surprising and unwelcome cost was passed on to the owners themselves.

Understanding Unexpected Costs is Key

Misunderstood strata documents can become huge issues and costly occurrences, which is why having an agent who can fully explain your strata to you, based on your condo purchase in Vancouver, is truly a benefit worth investing in.

As a Vancouver real estate agent, I feel that realtors should definitely be educated in matters of strata properties in order to best guide their clients on their condo considerations and purchases. I’m thankful to have taken a local strata course, knowing I can further help those looking to buy into the Vancouver condo market, better understand their purchase decision, and protect them from the responsibility shock such as the leaky condo crisis or the flooding washing machine incidences.

So if you are looking at buying a condo in Vancouver, allow me to help steer you in the right direction, and assist you in making an educated purchase you will feel secure about!