Twelve questions to ask before buying in a condo building

Beyond the suite itself, ask: how well funded is the reserve fund against the study, what major work is planned in the next five years, has there been a special assessment, and is one anticipated. Then ask about fee increases over the past five years.

Next, the rules: are pets restricted, are rentals or short-term rentals limited, and how is visitor parking handled. Confirm whether parking and locker are owned, exclusive-use or leased.

Finally, the practicalities: what is included in the fee, are suites individually metered for hydro or water, is there any ongoing litigation, and how many units are owner-occupied. Your lawyer verifies most of this in the status certificate.