Most first-time buyers focus on mortgage rates and monthly payments. But according to Farrah Turcotte, mortgage broker, personal finance coach, and strata council insider, that's only part of the equation. In this episode, Farrah joins Brent and James to unpack the full cost of owning in a strata: from rising maintenance fees and special levies to budgeting for appliances, insurance deductibles, and those sneaky amenities you might never use but still pay for.

They dig into how to prepare your finances before you buy, how to stress test your budget, and why so many buyers are walking into ownership unprepared for the long-term costs. Whether you're buying your first unit or helping someone else through the process, this episode is a must-listen before you sign anything.

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In this reaction episode, Brent and James unpack Sanjay Maharaj's decision to sell his strata management company and reflect on the broader questions it raises. What happens when rising costs, talent scarcity, and evolving client expectations converge? Is the current service model built to withstand the long-term pressures of the job?

Brent and James take a thoughtful look at the emotional and operational demands that led Sanjay to move on, and what leaders in the space can learn from his story. It's not a crisis, it's a moment for reflection.

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A large accounts receivable (AR) can be more than just an inconvenience for a strata, it can cripple its ability to operate. In this episode Oscar Miklos, founder of Refresh Law returns to reveal the hidden risks of letting unpaid strata fees linger and provides actionable strategies on how to recoup those funds.

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After years of battling rising costs, shrinking margins and growing client expectations, Sanjay Maharaj made the tough call to sell his business. In this episode he breaks down the challenges that led to that decision and what it means for the future of strata management.

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Electric vehicles are here to stay – is your strata ready? Lee MacFarlane from Edwards Mechanical breaks down the process for making a building EV-ready. From infrastructure upgrades to funding, he covers key steps, and what councils need to know to future-proof their building.

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In this episode of the podcast, we explore how strata councils must align during the RFP process when selecting new management. Guests Dave Calloway, Regional Vice President with FirstService Residential, and Kim Palmieri, Vice President Sales & Operations East Region, share expert insights on avoiding common mistakes and ensuring smooth decision-making. Tune in to learn how to navigate this complex process and secure the right management team for your community.

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In this episode, CEO David Diestel discusses the groundbreaking Benchmark report from FirstService Residential. Packed with critical financial data for high-rise communities, this report is essential for budget-savvy boards. From maintenance fees to reserve funds, this guide supports boards to confidently back their budgetary decisions with data.

Discover how this resource could transform your budget meetings. Our commitment to Life, simplified.

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Get the Guides:

3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata Councils Maintenance Planner Checklist 8 Steps for Going out to Bid

In the first year of managing a newly built strata, councils often encounter unexpected issues with developers, from deficiencies to lack of money. This episode delves into the common frustrations councils face in new builds, offering practical advice to overcome initial hurdles and ensure long-term success. Tune in for expert tips, red flags to watch for, and essential survival strategies to help your council navigate the first-year journey with confidence.

In this episode, Brent and James explore how strata councils can effectively address unsafe behavior, bullying, and harassment by utilizing their most powerful resource—bylaws. Return guest, Lisa Mackie, Partner and Strata Lawyer with AHBL breaks down the key steps councils can take to enforce bylaws that promote safety and respect within their communities.

Join us as we discuss practical strategies for using bylaws to foster a secure and harmonious strata environment.

Brace yourself for the new era of depreciation reports that's rewriting the rules for strata corporations. We discuss the sweeping changes and their profound implications for future planning and asset management. Learn how these pivotal changes will impact future planning and why it's just the beginning.