Budnyk Report - July Issue

Whether you are a new home buyer, preparing for retirement or simply downsizing, condominiums are a nice middle ground. Access to amenities that you might not otherwise be able to afford, hassle-free maintenance and the benefit of belonging to a community are some of the reasons why people are drawn to condo living. However, it's important to remember that along with community living comes a code of behaviour that everyone should follow.

Condominium on Vancouver Island

These common courtesies can extend from how common areas are used, to the way you decorate your space and are in place to ensure that people of many different backgrounds are able come together in a peaceful, pleasant neighborhood. In fact, before moving in, research the community and get to know your neighbours. Some communities are better suited to young families and others to retirees. Ask potential neighbours if residents often get together for coffee, Christmas parties or summer barbecues. If it is a friendly community and you decide to move in, attend those social functions. Here are a few more common courtesies that everyone should follow to maintain a pleasant community:

Greet all neighbors with a smile.
Use appropriate language, and avoid cursing and smoking in common areas as both are thought to be offensive.
Park in your designated spot: it isn't okay to use visitor parking spaces for extra vehicles.
Bring your trash to the curb the night before or day of garbage pickup only; secure it from wind, and bring the bins back in as soon as possible after garbage pickup.
Remove your laundry promptly, and refrain if possible from removing someone else’s laundry from the machine. When it absolutely can't be avoided, place the clothing in a clean basket.
Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your own. You may find that some of your neighbours are uneasy about unleashed pets; until you're certain, it’s okay keep them leashed in common areas.
It's acceptable to use the health club machines for 30 minute intervals when others are waiting and to place a towel on the bench beneath you before lifting weights.
Don't monopolize the racquetball courts or tennis facilities. If no booking rules are in effect, it’s standard practice to book no more than one hour a day.
It’s best to refrain from wearing revealing bathing suits when using the pool out of mere politeness.
If you are able to sublet your unit, make sure that your renters are aware of the rules because you will be the one responsible should your renters not follow the policies.

Another way to ensure that you are being courteous is by reading the condominium corporation's rules and regulations. Ask your real estate agent for a copy before agreeing to buy. If the rules and regulations agree with you and you choose to buy a condo, get involved in the community. Joining the Board of Directors will not only keep you informed, but allow you to be directly involved in how things are run.

As long as you strive to be a respectful, tolerant and friendly owner, community living will be a blissful thing.