You're not legally required to, but it's strongly advisable — especially for condos. A buyer's agent costs you nothing (commission is paid by the seller's side), provides MLS access before public portals, helps evaluate the status certificate, and negotiates on your behalf. For condos specifically, an agent who knows buildings in your target area can tell you which ones have problematic histories before you spend time and money on offers.

Maintenance fees fund the operating costs of the condo corporation — typically water, building insurance, management fees, landscaping, cleaning, and reserve fund contributions. What's included varies: some buildings include heat and hydro; others don't. Yes, fees can and do increase — historically 3–6% annually on average. The status certificate will show the current fee and any upcoming increase. Always factor fees into your total monthly cost when determining affordability.

A special assessment is a one-time charge to all unit owners to fund a major repair or expense the reserve fund can't cover. They range from a few hundred to $30,000+ per unit and aren't uncommon in older buildings or those with historically underfunded reserves. Your lawyer will flag any known or anticipated assessments in the status certificate review. The key question: is the corporation actively managing its reserve fund, or has it been deferring contributions for years?

Maybe. The condo declaration and rules govern this. Many Ontario corporations have explicitly prohibited short-term rentals (typically defined as rentals under 28 days). Even if the corporation hasn't banned it, municipalities like Toronto have their own short-term rental licensing requirements. Always check the declaration before purchasing if STR income is part of your plan. Violations can result in fines from the corporation and legal action.

Generally yes — within limits. You own the interior of your unit and can renovate it. However, most corporations require written approval before work begins, particularly for anything that touches shared systems (plumbing stacks, HVAC, electrical). Moving walls, installing hardwood, or modifying the kitchen may be subject to specific approval requirements. Review the corporation's rules document — included in the status certificate package — before planning any significant renovation.

Not always. Parking spots may be owned by the unit (on title), exclusively licensed to the unit (not on title but attached), or a completely separate purchase. Confirm whether the spot is deeded or exclusive use, and whether it transfers with the sale. Lockers are handled the same way. Both have implications for resale value and how they're handled in financing.

The Condominium Act limits a corporation's ability to ban pets outright — an absolute no-pets clause in a declaration is generally unenforceable if you owned the pet before buying. However, rules restricting pet size, number, or breed are common and generally enforceable. Always check the declaration and rules for pet provisions before purchasing if you have or plan to have pets.

Very different. Pre-construction condos involve a builder's APS (not the standard OREA form), Tarion warranty protection instead of a status certificate review, occupancy fees before title transfer, potential delays of 1–3 years, and development charges. There's a mandatory 10-day cooling-off period where you can walk away. Pre-construction has its own set of risks and rewards that deserve a dedicated conversation — reach out and we can discuss your specific situation.

Ontario has a Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT) that handles disputes between owners and corporations. The CAT is a low-cost, online-first tribunal that covers matters like records access, noise, pets, and parking. For more complex disputes, arbitration or civil litigation may be required. In practice, most issues are resolved through the property management company — document everything in writing if you're having problems.