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Ordering a status certificate before buying a condominium is a crucial step when considering condo living. The status certificate provides a comprehensive snapshot of the financial and legal condition of the corporation, as well as the policies that could affect the resident’s ownership experience.

By reviewing the condominium documentation before buying, you could:

• Avoid unexpected costs or hidden financial liabilities.
• Make sure that the rules and lifestyle of the condo align with your needs.
• Avoid potential legal issues that could impact your investment.

The status certificate includes information about:

The financial health of the condominium complex: the maintenance fees, reserve fund balance, and any outstanding debts or special assessments.

The rules and regulations: pet restrictions, rules about rentals and tenants, and what renovations are allowed in the condo units.

Any unit-specific details: unpaid fees or rule violations linked to the unit.

Any legal matters: pending lawsuits or legal disputes.

A copy of the corporation’s insurance policy.

In short, reviewing a status certificate, attachments and the minutes of the last meeting prior to firming up on a purchase is a safeguard that will help you make an informed decision about your condo purchase. It should also provide you with more confidence about your move and should help your closing go smoother.

CLICK HERE to read more about Status Certificates

Live in The Nautica Condominiums because of its waterfront location and proximity to Barrie restaurants and shops.

The Nautica Condominiums is one of Barrie’s most luxurious complexes located right on Kempenfelt Bay. The complex consists of two 16-storey twin towers with 10 upscale townhomes located at its base. These high-rise buildings are a prime definition of what condo living has to offer. Not only do they have a myriad of building amenities but each unit has a balcony and a view of the water.

The condo suites are all open-concept living, boast 9-foot ceilings, have large floor to ceiling windows, spacious bedrooms and open glass balconies.

The Nautica Condominium complex is conveniently located right across the street from Centennial Beach, right along the walking/cycling path. If you are looking to be close to downtown shops and restaurants but would also like some quiet time by the lake, this building would be perfect for you.

Did you know that condominiums along Barrie's waterfront are a prime location? AND WE HAVE ONE FOR SALE!!

Move in ready, 2 bedrom + den with a stunning water view. CLICK HERE for property details and virtual tour.

BUILDING AMENITIES
- Building Security System
- Lobby
- Elevator
- Indoor Pool
- Hot Tub and Sauna
- Fitness Centre and Exercise Room
- Library
- Event/Party Room
- Party Room and extra-large Lounge
- Full Games Room (Billiards, shuffleboard, table tennis, darts, jut box and more)
- Garden Terrace Lounge overlooking Kempenfelt Bay
- Two Guest Suites
- Landscaped Garden and Building Turnaround
- On-Site Property Manager
- On-Site Superintendent
- Bike Racks
- Underground parking
- Visitor Parking
- Wheelchair Accessible

Ashley Lamb - Barrie Condominium Expert
705.816.5262 | [email protected]

Would you like to read more:
Check out our latest Condo Market Report

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!

Most condominiums in Barrie are pet friendly complexes but with restrictions. The two main restrictions are the number of pets allowed in a unit and/or the pet’s size/weight. There are not many condominiums complexes in the Barrie and surrounding area that have a zero-pet policy but they do exist.
 
If you have a pet and are considering moving into a condo, make sure to reach out to the property management team to find out what the pet restrictions are. If you would like to review the pet rules and regulations, make sure to put a condition in our offer that protects you as a buyer. Pets are family and you want to be sure you are following the building’s requirements.
 
All condominium rules can be enforced by the property manager and condo board of directors. If you were to purchase a condominium and not follow the pet rules, you could be given notice for your pet to vacate, leaving you to make a very challenging and emotional decision.
 
If you are living in a condominium with a pet, make sure to clean up after them.
When potential buyers are viewing at condos, they are always looking at the condition of the complex; inside and out. People may see stains on hallway carpets or dog droppings outside and think the condominium is not well run or judge the type of owners who live in the complex.
 
There are a variety of systems condominiums have put in place to help keep the condominium grounds looking their best.

1.Designated areas outside for dogs to do their business.
2.Using the back entrance with your dog rather than trekking through the lobby.
3.Leashes and carriers are a must on condominium property at all times; inside and outside.
4.If there is a doggy spa in the building, wash your dog off prior to entry.
 
In conclusion, it is important to respecting the pet rules of any condominium complex. Not only do you live in a close proximity to your neighbours, but you want to make sure the value of your complex does not get effected by owner negligence.
 
If you have any questions about pet rules and restrictions in any condominium in Barrie, please do not hesitate to reach out. 

Ashley Lamb - Barrie Condominium Expert
[email protected] | 705-816-5262

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!

Live in Jacobs Terrace Condominiums because it is centrally located in Barrie.
 
This quaint complex is located halfway between Barrie’s waterfront and highway 400, right at the bottom of Anne Street.  This 3-storey, low-rise building has minimal amenities; which keeps their monthly maintenance fees low, and a variety of layouts, all with in-suite laundry and a private covered balcony.
 
There are two very different exposures this building has to offer; 1) treed view, 2) overlooking the main parking lot. This is why you can see a noticeable difference in prices in this building.
 
Did you know that tree view units rarely come available in this complex? AND WE HAVE ONE FOR SALE!!
 
Move in ready 2 bedroom condo with quiet view. CLICK HERE for full property details.
 
Building Amenities:
- Building Security System
- Lobby
- Elevator
- Party Room/Lounge
- Landscaped Gardens
- Community Gazebo
- Community BBQ
- Surface Parking
- Visitors Parking
- Wheelchair Accessible
 
Close To:
- Shops and Restaurants on Anne Street
- The Farmhouse Restaurant
- Fox’s Bakery
- Barrie Waterfront
- Centennial Beach
- Waterfront Bike/Walking Trail
- Allandale GO Station
- Public Transit
- Hwy 400

Ashley Lamb - Barrie Condominium Expert
705.816.5262 | [email protected]

Would you like to read more:
Check out our latest Condo Market Report

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!

When selling a condominium that has a special assessment in the status certificate, it can be stressful. But if you hiring an agent that understands special assessments, then it can make your listing and transaction go much smoother.
 
For starters, what is the special assessment for? Is it something that a buyer may put value on or something that they would consider “normal” for the age of the complex? If so, you won’t scare them off, especially if they have already been educated on what a special assessment is. This is why it is important that you hire an agent that can educate and explain what special assessments are to potential buyers and other real estate agents showing your home.
 
Is the special assessment for a single item like a beautification project to modernize the landscaping or lobby? Through the eyes of a buyer, this could be a positive special assessment as it will help the value of the property go up. OR is the special assessment in place because the complex is worried about increasing the maintenance fees to keep the complex looking “desirable”? A buyer could look at this as a negative as it could be a sign that the complex has been improperly budgeted.
 
I understand many condo owners think that their complex will look more desirable to buyers if their fees are low but if the lower fees come with the expense of an ongoing special assessment, it wouldn’t make sense.
 
Buyers know that condominiums have monthly fees; it’s part of the lifestyle, and when they are searching for the right condo, they simply budget their purchase price according to what they can afford monthly. It wouldn’t be ideal if a buyer were to purchase a condo based on the mortgage payment, property taxes, maintenance fees and utilities, but then moves in and finds out that there is going to be a special assessment starting in a couple months to simply build the reserve fund rather than for something tangible. Why not simply raise the fees? It is best to be upfront and honest about your corporation.
 
In my opinion, there are good and not so good special assessments. And if a special assessment can be avoided by increasing the maintenance fees, I would suggest doing so.
 
Lastly, special assessments can be negotiated when selling. If you are worried about getting less money and buyer interest in your condo because there is a special assessment in place, you can pay it off in advance or reimburse the buyer on closing for the remaining payment(s). Everything can be negotiated!
 
Be upfront and honest about any special assessments and don’t fear increasing the monthly maintenance fees. And get advice from condo professionals that are in the industry every day.

Would you like to stay up to date on the Barrie condo market? Subscribe to my monthly market report TODAY!
 
Thinking of making a move? We are a CONDO FOCUSED team that has served the local condo community for over 7 years and has over 17 years experience serving the condo industry in the GTA. We would be honoured to have the opportunity to discuss how you can net the most money in this market. CALL TODAY to book your FREE CONDO EVALUATION :)

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!

The Gallery Condos is centrally located in Barrie, just off the highway on Essa Road. This art inspired complex consists of 4 mid-rise buildings backing onto 14 acres of environmentally protected land with walking trails, board walks and lookouts. There are a variety of layouts ranging from studio/bachelors to 1400+ square foot corner units; all with oversize balconies, and a communal rooftop terrace overlooking Barrie.
 
Many people are attracted to The Gallery Condominiums because of its central location, spacious layouts and the 400.

 
Amenities:
- Building Security System
- Lobby in each Building
- Elevators in Buildings
- Landscaped Gardens
- Community Rooftop Terrace (Building 302)
- Onsite Superintendent
- Underground Parking
- Visitors Parking
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Barbeques Allowed
 
Walking Distance To:
- 8 Hectares of Walking Trails in your Backyard
- Zehrs
- Mountain Equipment Coop
- Lowe’s Home Improvements
- Tim Horton’s
- Burrito Boyz
 
Close To:
- The Corner Market
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Pizza Pizza
- Starbuck’s
- Highway 400

The Gallery Condos – 300, 302, 304 & 306 Essa Road Barrie, Ontario

Real estate services are an essential service so agents are still allowed to assist buyers and sellers in the market but are required to follow the direction of health officials, respect COVID-19 rules that condominiums have in place and follow the unit owner’s wishes when in their space.

Before booking any appointments, Realtors are required to screen all potential buyers by asking them a series of COVID-19 related questions and sign a consent form before any appointments are confirmed.

It is necessary to wear a mask when indoors; including any underground parking, and apply hand sanitizer when provided by the building or unit owner. I would even recommend keeping your mask on when in covered parking as well.

Some realtors and offices are implementing their own rules which include: refusing multiple showings at the same time, restricting appointments to 30 minutes rather than a full hour and allowing only two people through the property with their agent and no kids. This is to help keep traffic in buildings to a minimum.

Although the industry was allowed to resume open houses during the summer/fall months, it was unusual to see any being held. Now that Ontario is back in lockdown, open houses are once again banned across all real estate boards until further notice.

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!

Would like to read more about:
Simcoe County Condominium Market: 2020/2019 Comparison  CLICK HERE
Barrie Condominium Report - Decmeber 2020 CLICK HERE

Would you like to stay up to date on the Barrie condo market? Subscribe to my monthly market report TODAY!

Own a condo and are curious of its value? Please reach out so we can discuss the best selling strategy for achieving your goals.

Real estate has been considered an essential service but it is not business as usual.
 
Realtors have a duty to follow the direction of health officials to minimize direct physical interaction by only listing properties if it is absolutely necessary for the seller to move and show properties if buyers are in a situation where they need to purchase in order to put a roof over their family’s heads. This is definitely not a time where people should be testing out the market or scrambling to sell before the we go into a recession.
 
It was announced earlier this month that physical public open houses are absolutely prohibited and sales people are encouraged to follow the direction of the health officials by declining to facilitate or participate in physical public open houses, even if the seller's request. Sales people are also recommend to limit showings to only those buyers that NEED to find a place to live, not to those who are testing out the market.
 
Many agents are embracing digital technology to reduce risk of COVID19 transmission but also be able to provide service to their sellers and buyers if absolutely necessary.
 
It has been encouraged that agents do virtual walk-throughs and virtual open houses to limit the number of people going through properties and to use any pre-existing virtual tours to assist buyers with narrowing down their searches.
 
Most listing agents are only allowing showings to be booked if the buyers have seen all photos, videos and done a drive by the property prior to any showing requests. Brokerages are sending out forms to be signed by all buyers and their agent before confirming appointments, screening all individuals on current state of health and so forth.
 
Lastly, to minimize risk in your home if you do need to sell, it is recommended to leave hand sanitizer and gloves at the front door and wipe all door knobs, light switches and surfaces when you get home.

Would like to read more about:
Barrie's Condo Market Report - March 2020. CLICK HERE
 
There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!
 
Would like stay up to date on the Barrie condo market? Subscribe to my monthly market report TODAY!

Interested in owning a unit at the Residence of Five Points in Barrie - First condominium built with unobstructed water views of Kempenfelt Bay in a decade. Luxury living at its finest, you won't want to this opportunity!
 

Barrie Condo Corner is hosting the first VIP event for Five Points Condos with the
LOWEST PRICES BEING OFFERED!!!

Are you interested in getting FIRST PICK of this amazing project that is going to change Barrie forever? Please fill out the form below to register for our VIP event on May 9th, 2019. Limited tickets available.

5 Points Condos, located right at the corner of Dunlop and Bayfield Street, will offer amenities like no other condominium builidng in Barrie Ontario. Concerige, community BBQ area, outdoor pool on 5th floor podium, bicycle storage and an indoor dog washing station, are some of the luxury amenities this building has to offer. 

One, two & three bedroom units available with a variety of views and layouts.

For more information about the Residences at Five Points, please click here.

**Seating is limited and prices will go up before the sales centre opens to the public. Floor plans and pricing can be discussed prior to the event.

The Residence at Five Points is going to be the first condominium built overlooking Barrie’s Kempenfelt Bay since the Nautica Condos complex on Ellen Street was built a decade ago.
 
Location, location, location is what people say when it comes to real estate, and the Five Points intersection definitely has it! Residents will have so much at their figure tips including; the Five Points Theatre, boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and public transit. Not only will the building offer amazing water and park views but you will be steps to the waterfront and shore trails and a short drive to Barrie’s GO Station and highway 400.
 
This modern, upscale building is going to consist of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom layouts all with balconies and its own unique view of Barrie. High-end finishes will be offered along with underground parking and storage lockers.
 
The amenity area will be at the top of the podium on the 5^th floor where you will find a large open terrace overlooking Barrie’s downtown strip. This rooftop will have an outdoor pool with pool side seating, community BBQ and kitchen area and a walkway amongst trees and gardens. Indoors there will be a café lounge, event room, yoga/exercise centre and a luxury guest suite.
 
Luxury living at its finest, The Residence at Five Points will be the very first condominium in Barrie that will have a concerige!! This will be fantastic for parcel pick-up, ongoing security and amenity bookings, to name a few. Residents will also have access to an indoor dog washing station, bike storage and possible kayak rentals.  
 
Located on the northwest corner of Dunlop Street W. and Bayfield Street, this 20-storey sleek building is going to change the look of Barrie’s downtown forever.

Pre-construction units are to hit the market Spring of 2019. Prices starting in the high $300s.

Please fill out the form below if you are interested in receving updates on this condominium project.
 
 

 
Did you know that properties that smell like smoke are 85% harder to sell? Not only do buyers see dollar signs when thinking about how to get rid of the smell completely but they also have health concerns related to second hand smoke. The value could be affected by up to 27%.
 
Residents that smoke in their units could also affect the resale value of their neighbours and the building as a whole. Smoke can enter other units by open windows, balconies and travelling into hallways when doors are open. Potential buyers could be turned off of a building if they are on a tour and smell smoke in hallways and other common areas.
 
Buyers are aware that condo buildings in Barrie are starting to go smoke-free and living in a smoke-free building is of importance to many, especially those that are looking to live in a complex that supports healthy lifestyles.

Would you like to stay up to date on the Barrie condo market? Subscribe to my monthly market report TODAY!

There's a difference between working with an agent and working with a CONDO AGENT. Make the right decision and WORK WITH AN EXPERT!
 
Statistic Source: www.smokefreehousingon.ca

An introductory 2 hour course for condo directors and owners. Participants will be provided with an introduction to and basic knowledge of condo terminology, the Condominium Act, 1998, various condo documents, property management and the role and responsibilities of condo directors.

An excellent opportunity to find out what you need to know to be an effective condo owner or director.

Details:
January 31, 2017 7-9 p.m.
Registration begins at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Ferndale Banquet Hall, 24 Ferndale Industrial Dr. Barrie

Registration Fee: $20.00

First 100 registrations received are complimentary courtesy of CCI Group.

Click on the link below to register today!
https://www.ccihuronia.com/images/Intro%20Course%20Flyer%20Jan%202017%20resized%20copy.pdf