Stratagize

In this episode, Brent and James discuss essential insights for first-time strata owners to navigate the intricacies of community living. This first conversation takes a high level view of some of the organizing principles of a strata, such as the dynamics of decision-making within the council, and how the strata manager fits into the puzzle. Also discussed are the financial responsibilities and maintenance protocols. This episode is aimed at being your go-to resource for a fulfilling experience as a first time strata owner. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin 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.  

In this episode, Brent and James are joined by Matt Scalena, one of the hosts of the ever-popular Vancouver Real Estate Podcast. Together they discuss the impact a realtor has on the dynamic landscape of purchasing in a strata. This is a must listen for any first time home buyers and those new to strata living. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin

Waiting days for a response from your strata manager? It's a frustration many strata residents face. What if there is a solution? Explore the frontier of efficient communication and modern email management with Lielin Chester's game-changing approach to strata management email... 64% of all resident email is resolved in four hours! Listen in to learn how this revolutionary approach goes beyond swift & efficient responses, and a more accessible manager to prevent burnout, turnover, and improving work-life balance for strata managers.   Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin  

In this episode Brent and James speak dive into a critical issue facing strata managers in British Columbia - the challenge of portfolio assignment and its direct impact on service delivery to strata clients. Many strata clients face challenges due to the portfolio assignment system that simply do not exist in a non-portfolio market. Guest Darrin Whitney, Vice President of Operations for FirstService Residential unpacks the intricacies of portfolio assignment and offers insightful strategies to enhance service delivery. Join us as we uncover how to foster a more harmonious management experience. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin Connect with Darrin Whitney Linkedin   Get the Guides: 3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata Councils Maintenance Planner Checklist 8 Steps for Going out to Bid

In this episode your hosts Brent and James go solo to take a deep dive into the termination process of strata management agreements. As consultants who assist strata councils transitioning to new management, they are no strangers to the myriad questions surrounding this topic. They start by understanding the structure of agency agreements then zoom in on the termination process itself, shedding light on its unique aspects and common misconceptions. This episode is a great standalone resource if termination of your agreement is in the cards for your strata as no stone is left unturned. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin Get the Guides: 3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata Councils Maintenance Planner Checklist 8 Steps for Going out to Bid  

In this episode, Brent and James conclude the series where we decode the intricacies of living in a strata community. From deciphering bylaws to understanding the difference between common and limited common property they discuss the rules that will shape your daily life. Delve into dispute resolution mechanisms and discover the do's and don'ts of alterations to your strata lot, and gain valuable insight into the complex realm of insurance for a strata. Whether you're a seasoned strata resident or a newcomer this episode is your go-to guide to master the essentials of strata living. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin Get the Guides: 3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata Councils Maintenance Planner Checklist 8 Steps for Going out to Bid  

In this insightful episode, hosts Brent and James delve into the crucial aspects that councils need to understand when it comes to supporting ageing residents who aspire to continue living in their homes and communities. Joining the conversation, Tony Gioventu, Executive Director of CHOABC returns to Stratagize to explore how fostering empathy and sensitivity to the changing needs of strata residents not only enhances the quality of life for ageing residents but also promotes healthy communities. Connect with Stratagize: Website Linkedin Email Connect with Brent Anderson Linkedin Connect with James Milne Linkedin Get the Guides: 3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata Councils Maintenance Planner Checklist 8 Steps for Going out to Bid  

In this episode, hosts Brent and James dive into the top mistakes strata councils often make when it comes to occupancy limits and short-term rentals. They are joined by Lisa Mackie, a partner with AHBL, who shares her expert insights. Together, they uncover common pitfalls, such as incorrect bylaws, overlooking human rights considerations, and neglecting to adapt to changing regulations. Tune in to learn how to avoid these errors and successfully navigate the complex world of strata governance.   _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:Have your bylaws reviewed by a strata lawyer at least once every five years. Changes in legislation, CRT rulings, and case law could leave some bylaws unenforceable. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 Occupancy limits is a thorny situation. No clear cut bylaw can withstand scrutiny under Human Rights Code.     🛠 A common mistake councils make is encroaching on a protected characteristic.     🛠  Short term rental or accommodation is not an expression under the Strata Property Act.     🛠  Since there are no rental restrictions, bylaws cannot regulate rental. 💬 QUOTES"Ignorance of the bylaws are not an excuse."         MYTH VS FACT 🦄The owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring there is no contravention of any short term bylaw.   (Myth)   It depends on how the bylaw is drafted and worded.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool    

In this episode, Brent and James delve into the realm of community building, joined by the insightful Sue Matthews, Regional Director at FirstService Residential. Together, they navigate the intricate landscape of effective bylaw governance, uncovering how well-structured bylaws can foster a sense of togetherness and harmony within residential communities. Drawing from Sue's extensive expertise, they offer valuable tips that strengthen the very fabric of strata living. Whether you're a strata council member or a resident looking to make a positive impact, this conversation provides actionable insights to cultivate thriving and united communities through thoughtful bylaw governance.   _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:Ensure your bylaws are drafted by a strata lawyer and reviewed every five years as legislation changes. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 Buying into a strata means giving up some personal freedoms as bylaws provide a set of rules to follow.     🛠 Effective bylaw program educates, informs, affects behaviour, and develops community.     🛠  Biggest mistake councils make is getting too personal and not enough due diligence.     MYTH VS FACT 🦄"Council or strata manager can write bylaws."    (Myth)   This is a terrible idea, even if a council member is a lawyer. Engage a strata lawyer who is current on CRT decisions and legislation. _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool

Brent and James welcome Paul Mendes from Lesperance Mendes to shed light on the topic of strata windups. In this episode, owners will gain valuable insights into what they need to know about strata windups, discover common mistakes to avoid, and learn about the key steps involved in the process. With expert guidance and practical advice, this episode equips owners with the knowledge to navigate strata windups successfully and make informed decisions for their properties. _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:The number one mistake councils make with windups is they don't communicate enough with the owners. Ensure your process provides owners with all the information required. Consider holding townhall meetings. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 Windups are the voluntary termination of the strata corporation. The process requires an 80% vote of all owners.     🛠 Developers recognize prime targets are stratas with bad depreciation reports which drives prices lower.     🛠  Most strata windups fail at the 80% vote     🦄 MYTH VS FACT A windup is forced onto strata owners. They won't have a say in the process.   (Myth)   Owners have quite a bit of influence at SGM. Owners can lobby other owners, get proxies, drum up oppostion.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Paul MendesLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool    

In this episode, Brent and James dive into the world of strata warranties with Naomi Rozenberg, partner with Lesperance Mendes and equip you with knowledge & best practices to navigate the process with confidence. Understanding and implementing these tips will help ensure a smooth and successful warranty experience. _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:Set expectations with your strata manager around their level of involvement with the warranty process. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 Five key reporting deadlines that are tied to the commencement date: 12 month, 15 month, 2 year, 5 year and 10 year.     🛠 Engineering reports can take six months to complete. Plan well in advance of your deadlines.     🛠  Read through warranty manual & create calendar reminders for key dates & deadlines. Read through maintenance manual, review recommendations and create spreadsheet of what needs to be done & when.   🛠  Watch out for warranty deadlines that expire at 12:01am     🦄 MYTH VS FACT The strata corporation is responsible for deficiencies in the strata lot.   (Myth)   Strata corporations are responsible for deficiencies with common and limited common property.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Naomi RozenbergWebsite _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool    

In this episode, Brent and James meet with Alex Chang, partner at Lesperance Mendes and delve into the intriguing world of the Civil Rights Tribunal and its effect on resolving strata matters. While the tribunal's approach is lauded for its quick and efficient justice, there are concerns that the decisions reached may not always be well-informed. Council members are presented with essential insights and considerations to navigate this complex landscape. _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:Unmet expectations are the biggest source of complaints. Understand the four keys to proper expectation setting: Set vs unset & realistic vs unrealistic. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 CRT decisions are quick & dirty and may not be as well informed and the normal rules of evidence do not apply.     🛠 A common mistake is a strata council responding to a claim on their own without assistance of a lawyer.     🛠  Tip when writing a CRT claim is to ensure that what you are seeking is clear. If the order is not clear the CRT might not be able to enforce that order.     🦄 MYTH VS FACT A strata council cannot enlist a lawyer to assist them with their response.   (Myth)   A strata lawyer can assist the strata in the background with many aspects of the process up to drafting the full resposne they can copy and paste.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Alex ChangLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool

Join hosts Brent and James in an eye-opening conversation about BC's housing crisis. With thousands of people flocking to the region each month, the demand for housing is reaching unprecedented levels. However, the alarming reality is that the supply falls far short of meeting this surge in demand, setting the stage for an imminent price surge that threatens to leave countless individuals without affordable homes. In this captivating episode, they sit down with Brendon Ogmundson, Chief Economist with the BCREA to unpack the ineffectiveness of government policies aimed at curbing demand. Prepare to be shocked as they unveil a startling revelation: This is not a housing bubble; its an expensive game of musical chairs where the stakes couldn't be higher. Don't miss this enlightening podcast that confronts the housing crisis head-on and paves the way for meaningful discussions and potential solutions.   _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:Understand the difference between outcomes and needs. Put some thought into the root causes behind the problems you are facing. Whatever is required to solve those root causes become the actual need which results in the desired outcome. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 Immigration is going to bring about 100,000 people into British Columbia annually.     🛠 To match supply with demand, the BCREA is calling for 45,000 units per  year to be completed (25% increase over current rate of completion. CMHC is calling for 80,000 units per year to be completed.     🛠  Speed of completion is one of the bigger issues. 10 years ago it took 12-15 months, today completion takes over 24 months.     🛠  Government policies aimed at addressing demand have not had the desired effect. Focus is needed on the supply side of the problem.     QUOTES   "It's [housing crisis] is a huge problem, it's taken ten years for policy makers to figure out the issue is supply."   " We're getting to a bad place. There is a bunch of demand and not much supply so prices are raising at an unsustainable rate."   "Affordability is not a problem that politicians can fix."   🦄 MYTH VS FACT Is the housing bubble going to burst?   (Myth)   We've had so many economic shocks and none of them had an impact on home prices.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Brendon OgmundsonLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool

In this episode, Brent and James discuss Bill 44 with Jamie Bleay, partner at Bleay Both Uppal LLP. An in-depth look at the controversial removal of rental & age restrictions for stratas 2009 and older. _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP:If you have old bylaws that are no longer enforceable due to changes in legislation, consider having a strata lawyer review and edit them and have them passed at an upcoming AGM. This is good practice to do every 5-10 years. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 The removal of rent restrictions affects about 2,900 empty strata units as determined under the Speculation & Vacancy Tax.     🛠 Stratas are leaving old restriction bylaws on the books as a passive (and unenforceable) deterrent.     🛠  Occupancy limits are a growing area of inquiry in Mr. Bleay's practice.     🛠  A strategy for making rental less attractive may be to increase the move in/out fee.   🦄 MYTH VS FACT Bill will 44 have a detrimental impact on pre-2009 strata corporations.   (Myth)   Jamie sees Bill 44 having very little impact at all.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Jamie BleayLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool

  In this episode, Brent and James discuss privacy with Veronica Franco, partner & strata lawyer with Clark Wilson LLP. An in-depth look at the roles and responsibilities of strata corporations to protect your personal information. _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. 🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ 🚨 STRATA TIP: Ask your management company what steps they take to ensure your private data & information is protected. It's your information you have a right to know how its safeguarded.   _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS:🛠 A strata corporation is constantly collecting personal information.     🛠 Generally you can't use cameras to enforce bylaws, however if cameras are a last resort and the infraction is causing hardship to the strata then camera footage may be used to enforce bylaw infractions.       🛠  The biggest mistake councils make is they think the strata should be redacting personal information. PIPA maintains that if information is requested under SEC 35 of SPA then information shouldn't be redacted.       🛠  Strata records are the book of accounts and correspondence to and from the council. If the council is just emailing each other and the strata manager is not copied those emails do not form strata records.     QUOTE "Strata management companies need robust systems in place to protect strata residents banking information."       🦄 MYTH VS FACT Can a strata council install cameras without owner approval? MYTH Under the SPA – not allowed to used Operating fund money for expenses that occur less than once per year Under PIPA – Not allowed to operate cameras until you have documented need for cameras, obtained consent, put up signage and followed the rest of the steps required.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin   Connect with Veronica FrancoLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool    

In this episode, Brent and James meet with Chris Churchill, President of FirstService Residential BC to discuss significant challenges the strata industry is heading towards over the next few years and the implications this has for strata corporations and residents.   _________________________________   Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia. Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another. Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians. Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it! Listen to our latest episode, subscribe and rate us on iTunes. 👊 _________________________________ STRATA TIP:Take advantage of the multiple avenues for strata education. Whether that is signing up for a membership with CHOA, CCI or registering for the webinars or events that we conduct. Smaller stratas are very likely to see a reduction in their level of service over the next decade requiring the council members to be more hands on. Getting skilled up with available education will be a key to your stratas success. _________________________________   MAIN TAKEAWAYS: Up to 50% of strata managers will be retiring in next 5-10 years. The industry will move from being underserved to completely overwhelmed. As the supply of strata managers dry up, management services will be rendered from the top down, where the largest buildings receive coverage. This supply will start to run out at around 80 unit buildings. This will result either in massively increased management fees or these buildings will end up being self-managed. To keep people in the industry, companies need to invest in technology so that strata managers are not overwhelmed with thousands of emails per month. The most successful properties/councils cooperate with their strata manager, it is not a one-sided relationship. QUOTES"We don't need government intervention, we need government cooperation to speak with industry leaders to understand the complexity of the housing issue and the role strata plays in this situation."         MYTH VS FACT All management companies are the same.   (Myth)   If that were true then all companies would be managing the same type of asset and that is simply not true. Some specialize in small boutique properties, others specialize in large developments.   _________________________________ Connect with StratagizeWebsiteLinkedinEmail Connect with Brent AndersonLinkedin Connect with James MilneLinkedin _________________________________ RESOURCES 8 steps to going out to bid Decision making tool