Condo as a community

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By Barbara Lawlor
IT ALWAYS PLEASES ME TO POINT OUT THE MANY ADVANTAGES of living in a condominium. So often we read about the carefree lifestyle that comes along with having building and grounds maintenance taken care of, and the fact that the amenities such as pools, exercise rooms and party rooms provide a wonderful extension to the living space you enjoy in your suite. That is all true, but a condominium offers so much more – especially a real sense of community.
By virtue of what a high-rise condominium is, people who live under the same roof make up a neighbourhood. And in many ways, residents in a condo come in contact more often than those who live in low-rise communities and come and go in cars all day long. I know people who have lived in low-rise communities for\ years and still don’t know their neighbours. In a condominium, you meet your neighbours in the elevators, hallways and common areas, and faces quickly become familiar. When you travel, your neighbours don’t have to travel far to water your plants or feed your cat. And in a high-rise, people are more likely to notice if anything unusual is taking place, which adds a level of comfort.
Community is about sharing and togetherness, and condo amenities are natural spots where socializing happens. Chatting while you’re on a treadmill in the fitness room, relaxing by the pool or in the sauna, throwing a steak on the barbecue on the rooftop patio – these are all situations that nurture mixing and mingling with like-minded neighbours. These fabulous areas increase the sense of belonging that residents feel, and they are just an elevator ride away. And something as small as saying “good morning” when you step on the elevator contributes to the camaraderie.
Another benefit of condominium living is the fact that rules and regulations exist to protect people’s rights and safety. These guidelines are enforced by the condominium corporation to promote mutual consideration and respect among residents, and to protect everyone’s investment. Whether they are rules about noise, pets and other lifestyle considerations, everyone in the building is expected to follow these guidelines. It’s an even playing field. And on those rare occasions when an issue arises, there is a concierge to help address the situation.
That feeling extends to the surrounding community, as most urban condominiums are close to assorted amenities such as parks, shops, entertainment venues and more. Some condominiums today even have restaurants and commercial retail venues in the podium, which really makes the building a community in the truest sense of the word.
Keep in mind that in a condo, you decide how much togetherness you want. Your suite is your private sanctuary, and today’s gorgeous layouts and high-quality appointments make that an enjoyable experience. Your “home” is more than the immediate walls that surround you; home is also determined by the people in your neighbourhood.
If you make the move to a condo, make the most of the opportunities it brings your way. Extend a hand in friendship, and consider running for the condominium board of directors. You can help to make your condo a vibrant vertical community.
 
Barbara Lawlor – is president of BakerReal Estate Inc., and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in Canada and overseas.
Original source: Builder & Developer Annual 2016