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Condo Boards Must Act and Reduce Fees with Competition Soaring

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In today’s edition:

  • Condo Boards Must Act and Reduce Fees with Competition Soaring.

  • Trend Alert: Multigenerational Living on the Rise

  • INTERIOR COLOURS 2025: The Lowdown on Future Dusk

NO FLUFF NEWS, HACKS AND STORIES

Condo Boards Must Act and Reduce Fees with Competition Soaring

Financial Post

Here’s the Scoop

Toronto’s condo market is undergoing a steep price drop, opening a rare chance for buyers as a record number of listings flood the market.

Key Factors Behind the Decline

  • Excess Inventory: Condo listings are up 38% from last year, with many new projects completing through 2026.

  • Rental Market Shift: Condo owners unable to sell are listing rentals, especially bachelor units, which saw a 77.6% increase in Q3.

  • Developer Discounts: Developers are cutting prices to clear unsold units.

  • Economic Changes: Slower population growth and interest rate volatility add further downward pressure on prices.

Buyer Tips fro the Pros

  • Positioning for Deals: With prices dropping, buyers have a unique chance to secure lower-cost units. Experts suggest watching market trends carefully to time purchases wisely.

  • Financing Must-Haves: To get the best mortgage on a $600,000 unit, aim for:

    • A credit score of 680+

    • A debt-to-income ratio below 45%

    • An income around $145,000, with manageable other expenses.

  • Alternative Options for Low Credit: Buyers with lower credit can still secure loans but should expect higher rates and fees, with short-term loans offering a bridge to better terms later.

Why it Matters

Toronto’s market shift could be a turning point for buyers ready to act. With favorable conditions emerging, those who prepare well could find great deals in the coming year. Read More

Trend Alert: Multigenerational Living on the Rise

Getty Images

Here’s the Scoop

With rising housing costs, more families are opting for multigenerational living to share expenses and caregiving duties. Condos, however, are facing challenges adapting to increased occupancy levels, which can strain resources and disrupt community dynamics.

Key Challenges in Condo Communities

  • Increased Wear and Tear: More residents mean higher usage of elevators, utilities, and common areas.

  • Noise and Odor Issues: Increased occupancy can bring added noise and odors, impacting neighboring units.

  • Limited Capacity for Common Resources: Parking, trash collection, and other facilities face added strain, leading to higher maintenance costs.

Rethinking Condo Regulations

  • Flexible Family Rules: Updating single-family rules to allow immediate family members and caregivers can support multigenerational setups without overcrowding.

  • Occupancy Surcharges: Adding per-person fees for utilities and common areas can help manage costs while accommodating larger households. Read More

INTERIOR COLOURS 2025: The Lowdown on Future Dusk

Kurved By Design

Here’s the Scoop

2025’s Colour of the Year, Future Dusk, is making waves with its rich, mysterious blend of blue, violet, and a hint of grey. According to interior designer Kellie Richardson, this shade offers a perfect balance of sophistication and calm, making it adaptable for any space or style.

Easy Hacks to Style with Future Dusk

  1. Statement Wall
    A Future Dusk feature wall paired with light neutrals instantly creates drama and warmth. It’s an easy, impactful upgrade that can be repainted as trends change.

  2. Small Accents
    Add Future Dusk with cushions, throws, or rugs for a touch of luxury without a full overhaul.

  3. Metallics and Textures
    Combine Future Dusk with gold or brass accents and layer in velvet or silk for a cozy, elegant vibe.

  4. Warm Neutral Pairings
    Balance Future Dusk with taupe or cream to create a serene, inviting space.

  5. Kitchen and Dining Updates
    Incorporate Future Dusk in cabinetry or backsplashes for a sophisticated touch in functional spaces.

  6. Outdoor Appeal
    Use Future Dusk in planters, outdoor furniture, or walls to create a cohesive look that complements greenery.

Why it Works

Future Dusk strikes a perfect balance between bold and calming, making it versatile across various design styles. For those looking to refresh their home with a timeless yet trend-setting shade, this colour offers endless creative possibilities. Read More

CONDOROO CRIBS | THIS OR THAT?

Which crib looks pricier? 💸 (Scroll to bottom for Answer)

Crib A

Crib B

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Key Insights:

  • Host David Fleming breaks down the pros and cons of condos vs. houses.

  • Insights on maintenance fees, amenities, and dealing with condo boards.

  • Perfect for anyone weighing condo living against owning a house.

OVERHEARD ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Modern Cozy Charm in a Small-Space Gem by @tiny.flat

@tiny.flat highlights a beautifully simple, cozy apartment with an open layout, muted grays, and warm woods. Natural light and minimalist decor make this space feel serene and stylish—a perfect example of small-space design done right!

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

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CONDOROO CACKLES

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EVERYTHING ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW

Scrolled this far? Enjoy these exciting bonus bits!

👥 Managing Residents Who Are Not Owners

📊 Report on the State of Reserve Funds

🏢 Being a Condo Director

CONDO TYCOON | PIC OF THE WEEK

Innocenzo De Cotiis, Onni Group (Vancouver, Canada)

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