Living in a strata corporation, or condo, doesn’t need to feel like a quiet elevator ride with strangers. That was the message from Jaclyn Jeffrey, a retired strata manager, real estate consultant, and writer, in a recent conversation with Thomas at OctoAI.
With over a decade of experience, Jaclyn shared practical insights on how strata communities of any size can become warm, connected places to live and why it matters now more than ever.
Why Community Culture in Condos Matters
For Jaclyn, condo community culture comes down to one thing: you live there and it’s your home. You should enjoy it.
Community culture is built through simple acts like greeting your neighbors, knowing who lives around you, or helping with a common issue. Whether contributions are big, like volunteering on council, or small, like picking up a stray coffee cup in the lobby, each one is building community.
People who feel included are more likely to take pride in the building and are more comfortable resolving issues themselves. That can lead to fewer escalations to the strata council or management. Over time, it can mean lower costs, fewer disputes, and greater owner participation.
What Makes It So Hard? Understanding the Barriers
Strata living is a lot like living in a neighbourhood, just in a much smaller footprint. That density brings challenges. Residents are typically made up of a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, languages, lifestyles, and priorities.
In short: there’s a lot going on in a relatively small space. But with some thoughtful groundwork, that diversity can be a strength and a pathway to real community.
Simple Foundations for a Healthier Community
Communication
Open and respectful communication is the building block of any well-functioning community.
Jaclyn encourages residents to talk to each other before escalating issues to the council level. In most cases, a simply conversation between neighbours can resolve most issues.
Encouraging this kind of approach helps lighten the load on councils and the management company and prevents small annoyances from becoming big issues.
Fair and Consistent Governance
When formal action is needed, consistency is key. Uneven rule enforcement, real or perceived, can quickly erode trust.
Jaclyn stresses that strata councils should apply bylaws evenly to all residents, regardless of status or familiarity. That doesn’t mean a punitive approach is required, but it does mean treating everyone fairly and transparently.
In her own case, she once overwatered her balcony garden and accidentally flooded her neighbour’s unit below. The bylaw was enforced. She got a warning. She fixed it. And there were no hard feelings. Clarity and fairness go a long way.
Inclusion and Representation
Strata buildings are incredibly diverse. Many are home to renters, retirees, students, and new immigrants. While renters may not always have voting rights or council eligibility, they’re still part of the of the building.
Tenants should receive welcome materials, strata rules, and invitations to events. Councils are encouraged to not always rely on the homeowner to supply them to the tenant either. When renters are informed and engaged, they’re far more likely to contribute positively to the building.
Practical Strategies to Foster Positivity
Host Events
Events are one of the most effective ways to bring people together. Whether it’s a potluck, games night, or seasonal BBQ, gatherings encourage casual conversation and build familiarity.
Jaclyn jokes, “I’ll show up to any potluck I can get to”. The format isn’t what matters. What matters is consistency and openness. A few volunteers and a shared space are often all you need to get started.
Create Purposeful Shared Spaces
Most buildings have lounges, party rooms, or outdoor areas, but many sit unused due to complex booking rules or unclear policies.
Jaclyn suggests councils revisit those policies and encourage community use. Hosting regular events in these spaces can help residents feel a sense of ownership and connection.
In one 55+ building, residents turned their lounge into “The Pub” and held Friday happy hours. Not just for fun, but as a way to check in on each other.
Create Onboarding Packages
New residents often move in with no idea where the garbage room is, how to book the amenities, or which bylaws matter most.
A good onboarding package can change that. It should include:
- Key bylaws (noise, pets, renovations, move-ins/move-outs)
- Recycling and garbage instructions
- Contact and emergency information
- A list amenities and how to book them
Some buildings even go a step further, offering a quick tour led by a council member or Building staff. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference.
Provide Volunteer Opportunities
Not everyone wants to sit on council, but many residents are eager to contribute in smaller ways.
Create low-pressure roles, like event organizing, gardening suggestions, or welcome committees to help residents feel engaged. Even those who often complain may become valuable contributors when given the right outlet.
Conflict Resolution
Not every issue can be solved with a neighbourly chat, but many can.
When appropriate, the strata council should encourage residents to speak to each other first. If that doesn’t work, formal enforcement should follow a clear process: written notice, an opportunity to respond, and, if necessary, a hearing prior to further action.
Skipping these steps will likely backfire. When people feel heard and respected, even in conflict, they’re more likely to cooperate and comply. If not, there will be a clear process to follow for escalation.
The Role of the Strata Manager
Strata managers are often seen as the decision makers, but their role is really about support and guidance.
They help councils follow the various rules and regulations, navigate disputes, and ensure all decisions are properly documented and procedurally sound. Importantly, they bring neutrality. They don’t live in the building and aren’t emotionally involved.
That objective perspective helps councils make informed, fair decisions without getting drawn into personal dynamics.
Real-Life Examples
The Good
In a large apartment-style building, a vocal resident frequently sent complaints to both the council and manager. The complaints were relatively benign, garbage in the elevator or things she thought the council should be doing better. Rather than ignore her, the council invited her to attend a meeting.
She watched the process, saw how much work council members actually do, and gained a new appreciation for their efforts. The complaints stopped. The issue was resolved with respect, not resentment.
The Not-So-Good
In another building, council took a rigid stance against EV charging and Airbnb rentals. Instead of engaging with residents, they shut down conversation entirely.
The result? A tense, distrustful atmosphere. Residents stopped participating, the council became overwhelmed, and even the manager struggled to stay motivated. A once-thriving community culture unraveled because no one stopped to listen.
Final Thoughts
Creating a positive condo community doesn’t require a massive overhaul. It starts with small, human actions:
- Communication
- On-boarding
- Community engagement
Strata living doesn’t have to feel like an elevator full of strangers. Some simple changes can lead to a thriving community.
Bonus: Tools to Build Your Community
Want to jumpstart community-building in your own condo?
Download our free PDF of community event ideas or get a copy of the webinar slide deck to bring these strategies to your building today.
