Divisive actions
Life can be tough for students, especially when it comes to finding affordable accommodation near their universities and colleges. However, they eventually move on. But what about the families left…
Change management
In the various battles and skirmishes of strata living, Strata Managers are often on the front line – that’s why it’s so frustrating when yours go AWOL. QUESTION: I’ve become…
Niche work if you can get it
It’s not often I get the chance to praise developers but I’m happy to take my hat off to Nectar Efkarpidis who reckons it’s time to rethink our one-style-fits–all approach…
The light fantastic
A little light relief this week – at least that’s what one owner is hoping for when it comes to the question of switches. QUESTION: I’m a member of a strata Executive…
Water on the brain
Sleep deprivation and water torture sound like they’re straight out of the Guantanamo Bay handbook. But it’s no joke if you are the victim and your neighbours are allowing it…
No free lunch in an unapproved kitchen
Nowhere is the phrase caveat emptor – buyer beware – more relevant than in purchasing strata units. And if you and your solicitor or conveyancer don’t do your homework you…
How high-rise living keeps you safe
TO START THE ‘WHY I LOVE APARTMENTS’ BALL ROLLING, HERE’S AN OLD COLUMN FROM JUNE 2009 Did you read Herald columnist Elizabeth Farrelly’s piece the other week on how her…
Contracts or Con Tricks
There’s a minefield for new owners in Strataland that no one will warn you about – and the powers that be will do little or nothing to help you when…
Managing the managers
Continuing our series on what to look out for at your first AGM, one of the major decisions you may have to make is whether or not to have a…
Don’t buy bad by-laws
Last week we explained why the first AGM of a few building may sound like a tedious bore but holds the key to your happiness and peace of mind for…
Have your say or pay and pay
Meetings are boring and owners corporation annual general meetings can be more so than most. However, if you have just handed over your savings and your first-time home owners grant…
AGMs – The buck starts here
Meetings are boring and owners corporation annual general meetings can be more so than most. However, if you have just handed over your savings and your first-time home owners grant…