Its common for everyone to complain about the condo fees. At our last AGM we had someone complain about how high they were - though they had just moved in (didn't they know what they were buying?) To that end, our fees are not excessively high, regardless of what those few complainers think. First, it is very hard to compare buildings and fees. How many units are there? How many amenities do they have? Do they have indoor/underground parking? Do they pay for your heat and air-conditioning? Water? etc
Gowling WLG law firm and CondoAdvisor.ca did a survey Feb 2020 and provided some interesting results. I'll summarize here but go their website for details.
Age of Condo - our building is in the 2-10 years old category and is 14%. 11-20 year old buildings comprise 25% and interestingly, 24% are in the 31-40 year range.
Our building is the most common size in number of units (138) since 29% are in the 101-250 range. 22% are in the 51-100 range. Only 12% are bigger (251-500)
It's likely no surprise that most buildings are in the 11-25 floor range - 36%. In our size, its 19% (1-4 floors) while the intermediate 5 to 10 floors is 13%
30% of units include water, with 19% including hot water. only 14% include air conditioning (like we do) and 15% include heat (like we do)
70% have no EV charging. 6% have communal chargers and 24% have private stations.
Average fees are $0.66 in the GTA, and $0.52 in the Golden horseshoe. Across all areas the average is $0.58
Interestingly, buildings less than 2 years old average fees of $0.46 while buildings our age, 2-10 years average $0.60 which is right around what we pay. Those less than two years old will still be playing catch-up from builders initially low balling fees to sell units - like our building back when it was built. However, overall buildings less than 5 floors average $0.54 but when you compare buildings with the number of units we have (138) those buildings (101-250 units) average $0.63
72.1% of the time, fees will increase each year with a large (31.8%) or Moderate (40.3%) increase. Only 9.8% stayed the same.
Some interesting Facts - to help dispel rumor, misunderstanding and ignorance.
Monday, 22 June 2020
Friday, 12 June 2020
COVID 19
The COVID 19 world is hard on us all. Social distancing and hand washing are becoming the norm. As seniors my wife and I use hand wipes on all surfaces as we cannot be certain other folks in the building - as in the world in general - are passing on the virus, unwittingly.
There have been two cases of confirmed Covid in the building and so it pays to be careful.
We can only hope it finally ends, either on its own or with a vaccine so we can begin to enjoy life again.
The rooftop re-opened at the beginning of May with social distancing so its nice to be able to BBQ again. Now if the gym can open for those rainy days....
As always, this is our building - all 138 owners and residents - so for that small group of complainers, lets have less bitching and complaining while sitting on your ass doing nothing and more action. How Can I Help - should be your first sentence, not You Aren't Doing Enough For Me (while I sit here doing nothing.)
There have been two cases of confirmed Covid in the building and so it pays to be careful.
We can only hope it finally ends, either on its own or with a vaccine so we can begin to enjoy life again.
The rooftop re-opened at the beginning of May with social distancing so its nice to be able to BBQ again. Now if the gym can open for those rainy days....
As always, this is our building - all 138 owners and residents - so for that small group of complainers, lets have less bitching and complaining while sitting on your ass doing nothing and more action. How Can I Help - should be your first sentence, not You Aren't Doing Enough For Me (while I sit here doing nothing.)
Friday, 27 March 2020
Covid 19
These are trying times for everyone. This new virus means social distancing can be a challenge when you live in a condo (or apartment). We all need to do our best though to prevent the spread of Covid and to help keep others safe. Just because you are not sick doesn't mean you cannot potentially spread it to other more vulnerable residents.
The building is cleaning more regularly especially door handles etc to help prevent it but you can help by using gloves or a Kleenex when you take out your garbage or use the elevator or lockers.
We all need to be part of the solution.
Stay safe, keep your distance and be considerate of your neighbors.
Later
The building is cleaning more regularly especially door handles etc to help prevent it but you can help by using gloves or a Kleenex when you take out your garbage or use the elevator or lockers.
We all need to be part of the solution.
Stay safe, keep your distance and be considerate of your neighbors.
Later
Thursday, 13 February 2020
Update
It has been a while since I last blogged. Been busy at work and as a Board member.
The latest news is the condo is running well and settling in. The usual complaints from a few but overall its been going very well.
The big news, for me, is that I am no longer a Board member. Someone else was elected this past December at our 7th annual meeting. A few dissidents got together and voted in their friend. That's fine, it's what the elections are for and frankly, I was tired of all the complaining especially from those who never lifted a finger to help. Goes with the territory it seems, especially these days when folks are self absorbed and feel the world owes them everything and they need not abide by the rules (of society or a condo). Just look at the news.
I served with distinction, if I may say so, for 6 years leading the corporation through the trials and tribulations of any new building. In all those years I never missed a meeting and gave my all to ensure our building was well managed and steadily improved. Its nice to be able to sit back and let others take over.
Since the last post we have new BBQs on the roof, new Tables, outdoor areas improved and much more.
We are slowly moving to being a more green building with new Electric Vehicle decisions being made. The first EV is in place with agreements being formalized. Its something that enhances a condo and makes it more marketable while also helping the environment and anyone wanting an electric car.
More to come later perhaps. And welcome back.
The latest news is the condo is running well and settling in. The usual complaints from a few but overall its been going very well.
The big news, for me, is that I am no longer a Board member. Someone else was elected this past December at our 7th annual meeting. A few dissidents got together and voted in their friend. That's fine, it's what the elections are for and frankly, I was tired of all the complaining especially from those who never lifted a finger to help. Goes with the territory it seems, especially these days when folks are self absorbed and feel the world owes them everything and they need not abide by the rules (of society or a condo). Just look at the news.
I served with distinction, if I may say so, for 6 years leading the corporation through the trials and tribulations of any new building. In all those years I never missed a meeting and gave my all to ensure our building was well managed and steadily improved. Its nice to be able to sit back and let others take over.
Since the last post we have new BBQs on the roof, new Tables, outdoor areas improved and much more.
We are slowly moving to being a more green building with new Electric Vehicle decisions being made. The first EV is in place with agreements being formalized. Its something that enhances a condo and makes it more marketable while also helping the environment and anyone wanting an electric car.
More to come later perhaps. And welcome back.
Saturday, 31 December 2016
Happy New Year 2017!
Happy New Year to all the owners and residents of the Haven. We wish you all a wonderful 2017.
Our gym opened up December 1st and is already widely used by residents. We have two treadmills, some free weights and mats for a workout.
We also have a new management company - MRCM Maple Ridge Community management and look forward to working with them to improve services in the building
I look forward to sharing more with you in the new year.
Our gym opened up December 1st and is already widely used by residents. We have two treadmills, some free weights and mats for a workout.
We also have a new management company - MRCM Maple Ridge Community management and look forward to working with them to improve services in the building
I look forward to sharing more with you in the new year.
Tuesday, 4 October 2016
Gym
The new gymnasium is on its way to being ready. We need to install cameras for safety and security and then get access rules and regs put together to cover liability.
Hopefully in the next month or so we will open it up for use.
NEEDED:
At the AGM several folks mentioned volunteering weights and bicycles.
If you have rubber weights in the 5ib to 25ib range we could use a set.
Also a recumbent or upright bicycle.
There are two treadmills at the moment and mats for weights.
If you can volunteer anything email us
Hopefully in the next month or so we will open it up for use.
NEEDED:
At the AGM several folks mentioned volunteering weights and bicycles.
If you have rubber weights in the 5ib to 25ib range we could use a set.
Also a recumbent or upright bicycle.
There are two treadmills at the moment and mats for weights.
If you can volunteer anything email us
Sunday, 24 July 2016
P1 Lobby painted
Today your Board members, Sura and Roma, painted the P1 lobby. After several years of builders paint it is nice to see it looking updated and sharp.
The walls are a nice gray and the doors white. Let's try and keep them looking this way!
The walls are a nice gray and the doors white. Let's try and keep them looking this way!
Tuesday, 21 June 2016
Summer Time!
The summer heat is here and we can start to enjoy it.
A word of caution though, please make sure your HVAC is kept clean, they produce about a gallon of condensation an hour in this weather and if your drain plugs up that is bad.
Also, as we start to make use of the roof BBQs be mindful of the people beneath you just as you are when in you are in your unit. Heavy feet, jumping and running all bother your neighbours, especially dragging tables around. You should leave the tables where they are but if you must move them, pick them up and place them gently. Don't drag and drop.
Finally, please do not walk on the stones - the noise they generate is quite loud for the people below. It also disturbs their distribution and can impact the roofing material below them.
A word of caution though, please make sure your HVAC is kept clean, they produce about a gallon of condensation an hour in this weather and if your drain plugs up that is bad.
Also, as we start to make use of the roof BBQs be mindful of the people beneath you just as you are when in you are in your unit. Heavy feet, jumping and running all bother your neighbours, especially dragging tables around. You should leave the tables where they are but if you must move them, pick them up and place them gently. Don't drag and drop.
Finally, please do not walk on the stones - the noise they generate is quite loud for the people below. It also disturbs their distribution and can impact the roofing material below them.
Saturday, 12 March 2016
Post Office box Finally Ready
Finally, after only three months of waiting for the installers and post office people to pass a key between them, the post box in the lobby is available for use.
You can mail letters safely through the letter slot.
Of course, if you get a letter incorrectly addressed to you, write the correct address or some note on it and pop it in the letter box for the post office to deal with properly.
Parcels will be left in the boxes as per there size.
If you get a parcel, you MUST return the key after retrieving your parcel by putting it in the mail slot so it can be used for the next person.
You can mail letters safely through the letter slot.
Of course, if you get a letter incorrectly addressed to you, write the correct address or some note on it and pop it in the letter box for the post office to deal with properly.
Parcels will be left in the boxes as per there size.
If you get a parcel, you MUST return the key after retrieving your parcel by putting it in the mail slot so it can be used for the next person.
Tuesday, 23 February 2016
2016 AGM
The condo corporation held its annual AGM last night. For those who attended, Thank You!
The Board relies on your support to both ensure we always achieve our meeting quorum and also to provide us with input and suggestions.
The meeting went well with numerous questions being fielded by our auditor and the Board. As is normal each year, one position for Director was open - with Ryan Ahonen's elected time period ending. As he is busy with other Board's and is no longer an Owner he declined to run again. We want to thank Ryan for all his work over the past two years - he was indispensable.
The position as Director was filled by acclamation by Roma Black. Welcome Roma!
The Board looks forward to continuing their efforts to provide the corporation with effective governance and ensuring a safe, efficient, friendly building.
Remember, we all need to do our part in keeping the building clean and safe. If you see something inappropriate or unsafe report it to TAG so they can follow-up.
I am looking forward to Spring and getting outside again for BBQs and sunshine.
NOTE
I noticed that Google is changing their direction a bit and requiring folks who want to follow the blog to have a google account. I hope you all continue to support the blog. Thanks
The Board relies on your support to both ensure we always achieve our meeting quorum and also to provide us with input and suggestions.
The meeting went well with numerous questions being fielded by our auditor and the Board. As is normal each year, one position for Director was open - with Ryan Ahonen's elected time period ending. As he is busy with other Board's and is no longer an Owner he declined to run again. We want to thank Ryan for all his work over the past two years - he was indispensable.
The position as Director was filled by acclamation by Roma Black. Welcome Roma!
The Board looks forward to continuing their efforts to provide the corporation with effective governance and ensuring a safe, efficient, friendly building.
Remember, we all need to do our part in keeping the building clean and safe. If you see something inappropriate or unsafe report it to TAG so they can follow-up.
I am looking forward to Spring and getting outside again for BBQs and sunshine.
NOTE
I noticed that Google is changing their direction a bit and requiring folks who want to follow the blog to have a google account. I hope you all continue to support the blog. Thanks
Wednesday, 30 December 2015
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Well, it has been a few months since my last post. A busy time for me.
This is our second official Christmas season in the building. Things are starting to look up I think and I look forward to 2016.
I wish everyone a happy, healthy and productive 2016
This is our second official Christmas season in the building. Things are starting to look up I think and I look forward to 2016.
I wish everyone a happy, healthy and productive 2016
Monday, 28 September 2015
Supermoon
A few of us went up the roof to look for the moon but the cloud cover pretty well obscured it completely.
Until that is, around 11pm when I looked out my window and saw stars.
I went up around 11:10pm and managed to see the super moon coming out of the eclipse.
I really need a stronger ball head as this one slips too much. That and my inexperience result in the not so clear shot.
Until that is, around 11pm when I looked out my window and saw stars.
I went up around 11:10pm and managed to see the super moon coming out of the eclipse.
I really need a stronger ball head as this one slips too much. That and my inexperience result in the not so clear shot.
Monday, 14 September 2015
HVAC ongoing
I am sure you all received the notice from our management company about HVAC units. It is important to know that as owners these are totally your responsibility. There have been several breakdowns and leaks and these can end up costing you or your insurance should it happen in your unit as a result of not being properly maintained.
October is coming and Leeds will be back doing twice annual maintenance for those that purchased the service. If you get their insurance as well you get peace of mind. Contact TAG if you want to be added to the Leeds maintenance list before October and the heating season.
I may as well also mention the danger of fire from your dryer vent. In only a couple of months I collected a large amount of lint from the vent. This is not only a potential fire hazard it costs you money I think as your dryer needs to work harder. They are difficult to get to being behind the dryers in the ceiling but they still need cleaning.
October is coming and Leeds will be back doing twice annual maintenance for those that purchased the service. If you get their insurance as well you get peace of mind. Contact TAG if you want to be added to the Leeds maintenance list before October and the heating season.
I may as well also mention the danger of fire from your dryer vent. In only a couple of months I collected a large amount of lint from the vent. This is not only a potential fire hazard it costs you money I think as your dryer needs to work harder. They are difficult to get to being behind the dryers in the ceiling but they still need cleaning.
Friday, 19 June 2015
Condo Insurance
I was renewing my policy and noticed a change I had not seen before that impacts us all. If you plan to be away from your unit for more than "3 DAYS" you need to make sure you have someone visit and check in or your insurance policy may refuse to pay should something happen. If I recall this used to be one week.
It is awful that these companies are eroding our benefits while continually increasing our costs and even worse when they appear to be doing all they can to avoid a payout. What good is the policy if we need to be lawyers in order to understand it and get hit at both ends (paying and getting benefits)
*rant over*
My point is, be aware that perhaps your policy contains this clause as well and if you have a leak or some other problem while you are away, you may be in for a nasty surprise unless you make sure someone visited every 3 days. (I mean really, that is a long weekend for heavens sake)
It is awful that these companies are eroding our benefits while continually increasing our costs and even worse when they appear to be doing all they can to avoid a payout. What good is the policy if we need to be lawyers in order to understand it and get hit at both ends (paying and getting benefits)
*rant over*
My point is, be aware that perhaps your policy contains this clause as well and if you have a leak or some other problem while you are away, you may be in for a nasty surprise unless you make sure someone visited every 3 days. (I mean really, that is a long weekend for heavens sake)
Friday, 12 June 2015
More Dog problems
Once again we are paying to clean up after dogs that have been let loose on the roof. I do not know about you but I am tired of my maintenance fees paying for ignorant dog owners.
Let's be clear (again) - NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THE ROOF AT ANYTIME.
While we are at it, ALL DOGS MUST BE ON A LEASH when not in your unit.
It seems numerous owners/residnets think that rule only applies to others - "my dog is well mannered, etc"
Well, it is not only a Corporation Rule but it is Ontario Law for dogs to be leashed when outside. Not "big" dogs, or "other peoples" dogs but ALL dogs.
We need you to help with this, after all, you are paying as well. If you see someone with a dog off leash, tell them nicely to put it on a leash. If they refuse, note their unit number and call or email TAG. Likewise, if you see any dogs on the roof, tell nicely them to leave immediately. Note their unit and inform TAG.
Most dog owners follow the rules, it is the scofflaws we need to stop. This is your community, get involved to keep it neat and keep our fees going to things that help us all, not cleaning up after dogs.
Let's be clear (again) - NO DOGS ALLOWED ON THE ROOF AT ANYTIME.
While we are at it, ALL DOGS MUST BE ON A LEASH when not in your unit.
It seems numerous owners/residnets think that rule only applies to others - "my dog is well mannered, etc"
Well, it is not only a Corporation Rule but it is Ontario Law for dogs to be leashed when outside. Not "big" dogs, or "other peoples" dogs but ALL dogs.
We need you to help with this, after all, you are paying as well. If you see someone with a dog off leash, tell them nicely to put it on a leash. If they refuse, note their unit number and call or email TAG. Likewise, if you see any dogs on the roof, tell nicely them to leave immediately. Note their unit and inform TAG.
Most dog owners follow the rules, it is the scofflaws we need to stop. This is your community, get involved to keep it neat and keep our fees going to things that help us all, not cleaning up after dogs.
Saturday, 30 May 2015
Times Square store
JAB convenience across the street in Times Square is now able to sell Lotto 649 and Lotto Max tickets!
Support the store and get your tickets from them.
These convenience stores are handy for everyone but they need sales to survive. Plus, if you forgot your ticket one evening, they are just across the street - no need for a car.
Support the store and get your tickets from them.
These convenience stores are handy for everyone but they need sales to survive. Plus, if you forgot your ticket one evening, they are just across the street - no need for a car.
Monday, 9 March 2015
New Board 2015 - same old issues
Welcome Sura Alshear to the Haven Board of Directors! We anticipate a fruitful year working hard to accomplish our goals.
Dogs
There have been several posts lately about dog owners. Let's be clear - at NO time are you allowed to let your dog out a side door to do its business. Side doors are not to be used except in emergencies and are never to be propped open so you can let your dog run loose and defecate on the property. In fact, no dog is ever allowed to do its business on corporation property. If the dog accidentally goes, you are to stoop and scoop and deposit it in the garbage, NOT leave it by the front door for someone else to clean up.
Stoop and scoop is not only the law, it is being mindful of your neighbours. If you feel it is too much of a hardship then perhaps you should not own a dog.
Hot Water
There appears to be an intermittent issue with hot water the past few weeks. We thought it fixed two weeks ago but this weekend units had lukewarm water for showers and baths. We will continue to follow up and try to resolve this.
Dogs
There have been several posts lately about dog owners. Let's be clear - at NO time are you allowed to let your dog out a side door to do its business. Side doors are not to be used except in emergencies and are never to be propped open so you can let your dog run loose and defecate on the property. In fact, no dog is ever allowed to do its business on corporation property. If the dog accidentally goes, you are to stoop and scoop and deposit it in the garbage, NOT leave it by the front door for someone else to clean up.
Stoop and scoop is not only the law, it is being mindful of your neighbours. If you feel it is too much of a hardship then perhaps you should not own a dog.
Hot Water
There appears to be an intermittent issue with hot water the past few weeks. We thought it fixed two weeks ago but this weekend units had lukewarm water for showers and baths. We will continue to follow up and try to resolve this.
Thursday, 29 January 2015
Annual General Meeting - Feb 3rd
Our first official annual general meeting is coming up next week on February 3rd at 7pm in the Amenity room. All owners received a notice and proxy in the mail. Be sure to vote either in person or fill out that proxy and vote for your candidate. One member of the Board will be elected that night.
Two people are running for the position:
Ryan
Sura
Ryan is a lawyer living in the building. He would like to help manage the Board duties and believes his legal experience will be of benefit.
Sura also lives in the building and believes a woman's voice on the board will be an asset. Working in the Information Technology field she manages projects and also service providers and believes these skills will help the Board. She wants to have more informal meetings and automate some of the current services and communications.
Please make sure you vote!
( Candidate text is my verbiage - candidates are free to offer changes as they would like.)
Two people are running for the position:
Ryan
Sura
Ryan is a lawyer living in the building. He would like to help manage the Board duties and believes his legal experience will be of benefit.
Sura also lives in the building and believes a woman's voice on the board will be an asset. Working in the Information Technology field she manages projects and also service providers and believes these skills will help the Board. She wants to have more informal meetings and automate some of the current services and communications.
Please make sure you vote!
( Candidate text is my verbiage - candidates are free to offer changes as they would like.)
Friday, 16 January 2015
Looking Good!
Our building continues to evolve. The Amenity room and Roof top glass has a very nice H logo on it. The glass is frosted on the roof top elevator room as you can see below.
It looks really nice.
It looks really nice.
Tuesday, 13 January 2015
Welcome 2015!
Happy New Year!
The corporations second year is started and 2015 looks like it will be a good year.
Hopefully all the "getting started" issues will settle down and the building will become the home we all want.
The garage door continues to be somewhat of a problem but that should end this year as TAG and the Corporation work to finalize the issues.
The Lobby looks nice with its furniture and the Amenity room is equipped with tables and chairs, fridge, dishwasher and dishes for your use.
Hopefully the dog owners will start being more responsible and not leave their "doggie bags" by the Sutton entrance - I mean really, there are garbage containers on all floors and outside at the north end of the building. Who is too frickin lazy to use them? Disgusting.
Let's have a great 2015.
The corporations second year is started and 2015 looks like it will be a good year.
Hopefully all the "getting started" issues will settle down and the building will become the home we all want.
The garage door continues to be somewhat of a problem but that should end this year as TAG and the Corporation work to finalize the issues.
The Lobby looks nice with its furniture and the Amenity room is equipped with tables and chairs, fridge, dishwasher and dishes for your use.
Hopefully the dog owners will start being more responsible and not leave their "doggie bags" by the Sutton entrance - I mean really, there are garbage containers on all floors and outside at the north end of the building. Who is too frickin lazy to use them? Disgusting.
Let's have a great 2015.
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