strata

Episode 95: The Hidden Condo Costs Buyers Miss | Strata Red Flags Every Buyer Must Know

Buying a condo or townhouse in BC? The strata documents you review—or overlook—can make all the difference.
In this episode of The Real Deal Pod, Allister Carrington and Geoff Lee break down the key risks, red flags, and financial realities every buyer, seller, and Realtor® should understand before moving forward with a strata property.
From unexpected costs to financing challenges, this episode highlights how one missed detail can quickly turn into a costly mistake—and how to protect yourself with the right knowledge upfront.
In this episode, we cover:

How special levies can impact owners—and why they often come as a surprise

The importance of contingency reserve funds and what they reveal about a building’s health

How active lawsuits can affect mortgage approval and overall risk

Insurance red flags hidden within strata documents

Why rental-heavy buildings can create challenges with lenders

The role of depreciation reports in long-term planning

Property Disclosure Statements—and why transparency matters

Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or advising clients, this episode offers practical insight to help you navigate strata properties with confidence.
Because in real estate, what you don’t review can cost you.