If you’ve been condo shopping in Canada, chances are you’ve had this moment:
“Wait… the mortgage is affordable, but why are the condo fees almost as much?”
Condo fees (also called strata fees in British Columbia) can feel confusing or even suspicious, especially when they vary wildly between buildings. But what are you actually paying for?
This guide breaks down what condo fees in Canada typically include, how much you can expect to pay in 2025, and how to tell if they’re worth it.
💰 What Are Condo Fees?
Condo fees are monthly payments made by unit owners to cover the costs of running and maintaining the building or condo complex. They’re mandatory and are set by the condo corporation (a legal entity made up of all owners).
📦 What Do Condo Fees in Canada Typically Cover?
Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:
🛠️ Building Maintenance & Repairs
- Hallway cleaning, snow removal, landscaping
- Roof repairs, elevators, plumbing, HVAC
💡 Utilities (Sometimes)
- Some condos include water, heat, or gas
- Hydro is often separate, but not always
🏊 Amenities
- Gyms, pools, party rooms, rooftop terraces
- Concierge/security services
🏢 Reserve Fund Contributions
- A portion of your monthly fee goes into a reserve fund for big future repairs (roof, boiler, windows)
🧾 Insurance
- Covers common areas (NOT your personal belongings, get your own condo insurance for that)
📋 Management Fees
- The condo board often hires a professional company to manage finances, contractors, and operations
📊 How Much Are Condo Fees in Canada (2025)?
| City | Avg. Monthly Condo Fee (per sq ft) | Typical 800 sq ft Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | $0.65–$0.85 | $520–$680/month |
| Vancouver | $0.40–$0.60 | $320–$480/month |
| Montreal | $0.30–$0.50 | $240–$400/month |
| Calgary/Edmonton | $0.35–$0.55 | $280–$440/month |
| Halifax | $0.30–$0.45 | $240–$360/month |
Older buildings often have higher fees (due to aging systems) but larger units. Newer buildings may have lower fees, but often increase over time as maintenance ramps up.
🧠 Are High Condo Fees Always a Bad Thing?
Not necessarily. In fact, super low fees can be a red flag.
If the fees are too low, it might mean the building is underfunding the reserve, skipping maintenance, or hiding costs that could hit you later in the form of special assessments (aka lump-sum surprise bills).
Ask to see:
- The condo’s budget
- Recent status certificate or financials
- The reserve fund study
🚩 Watch Out for Special Assessments
These are extra, one-time charges issued to owners when the condo board doesn’t have enough in the reserve fund for a big repair (like replacing all windows or fixing the garage). You could suddenly be hit with a $5K–$30K+ bill on top of your usual fees.
🔎 How to Evaluate if the Fees Are “Worth It”
Ask yourself:
- Do the amenities align with your lifestyle?
- Are key utilities included?
- Is the building well-maintained and financially healthy?
- How does it compare to similar condos in the area?
High fees might be justified for luxury buildings or ones with pools, gyms, or 24/7 security. But if you’re paying top dollar for a dated building with no perks—that’s a red flag.
📌 Final Thoughts
Condo fees in Canada can be a confusing part of the home-buying journey—but understanding what you’re paying for gives you power. Ask questions, read financials, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the numbers don’t add up.
Sometimes, a slightly higher condo fee means better maintenance, fewer surprise costs, and long-term value.
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