These kinds of amenities and conveniences are often associated with the ultra wealthy. Condominium ownership, however, is a much less expensive alternative that can often echo this type of luxurious lifestyle. And, the best part is that it is affordable, even for the average earner.

Condominium amenities vary from complex to complex and can be minimal or absolutely fabulous. The one thing that remains consistent from complex to complex is the concept of joint ownership of the common areas and the fact that these areas require maintenance and upkeep. “Keeping the common areas and the grounds cared for enhances all of the owners’ property values,” says Lauretta Kaechele, vice-president of Emerald Management and Realty and president of the Southern Alberta Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute.

So who pays for all of this? Regardless of whether your building has an indoor tennis court and concierge service or it has nothing but a well appointed front lobby, the cost of maintaining these common elements is the responsibility of the condominium association, which obtains the funds from the monthly condominium fees paid by the owners. For many people the maintenance costs involved with living in a condominium are offset by expenses they used to have when they lived elsewhere: for example health club memberships and landscapers. But really, it is all about lifestyle. You are paying for a hassle free existence that leaves you free to enjoy life, not to spend hours toiling in the yard or repairing leaky roofs.

Kaechele says that the owners’ maintenance responsibilities and the corporation’s maintenance responsibilities are always clearly outlined in the bylaws. Maintenance of the common areas including building exteriors and landscaping (including snow removal and grass mowing) is usually the domain of the corporation. If there is a maintenance issue or a complaint regarding the upkeep of a common area, owners should contact the management company. If it is an emergency situation and the management company cannot be reached , then the corporation usually will have emergency procedures that are to be followed.

One of the greatest challenges with condo life is that owners automatically assume that a maintenance issue or a situation has been taken care of by the management company. “In one building, we had an elevator down for the whole weekend because no one called it in, ” says Kaechele. She recommends using common sense. “If you see an icy spot by your walk, then dust it with sand or ensure that if you have water drainage that your down spout is set up properly,” she explains. Staying on top of these kinds of little things will ensure that your property value is maintained and that small maintenance challenges do not escalate into something greater. CL