Have you been playing Monopoly and finding yourself wondering whether investing in a Strata complex would be your real-life equivalent of buying the sought-after Boardwalk square? Well, you aren’t alone! Strata complexes have recently caused quite the stir in the real estate market – but is this multi-unit multi-owner property type truly the right investment option for you?

Photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash

The Strata Appeal

First off, let’s discuss why Strata complexes might have caught your investor’s eye. With their shared ownership structure and typically lower entry prices compared to standalone properties, strata complexes provide investors with a way in without overcommitting themselves financially. Their shared maintenance costs and potential for close-knit communities make them appealing options that appear promising on paper; but let’s peel back the layers to see whether reality matches up with appearances.

The Strata Stumbles

As with anything, investing in a Strata complex isn’t all roses and capital gains – there’s always the possibility of mistakes or setbacks that need to be considered before diving in head first. First and foremost, shared maintenance costs often come with additional levies for large-scale works that add even more expense. Furthermore, there’s the infamous Strata Management Company to contend with; an organisation known for having more mood swings than a teenager! Renovation, pet, and parking restrictions are governed by your landlord. They also determine where you can park your car. And then there’s the issue of resale – while you might feel pride at finding an affordable investment, keep in mind that everyone has access to similar bargains. At some point in time, your market might become saturated with similar properties when selling them, reducing your return. Thus, while stratas may initially appear like charming Jay Gatsby-esque properties, in reality they could more resemble unpredictable Tom Buchanan-type individuals than initially anticipated.

Examining the Pros and Cons

Looking at strata complexes is like dating someone who’s wonderful at parties but difficult to live with. On one hand, shared amenities and social opportunities offer alluring amenities and a lower initial outlay, making these properties feel more appealing than a stand-in rental unit. They can even act like the ultimate charm offensive: when used correctly. On the other hand, you could be signing on for special levies, restrictions and an overcrowded resale market – an unpredictable combination similar to your ex’s memory but forgetfulness of your name. So should you select Strata as your ideal real estate solution? That depends entirely on your circumstances, risk tolerance and willingness to take a risk for potential success – there’s no such thing as an assurance in life or real estate investment!

Maintaining Your Strata Complex

Like dealing with an annoying hair day, maintaining a Strata complex can be quite the ordeal. First off, there’s routine maintenance. No longer do you control all aspects of your investment property alone – such as roofing repairs and wall painting decisions – on your own; in Strata land you are part of a community – much like on reality TV shows where all residents get a vote about which colour the lounge walls should be painted in order to get approval for changes. The group, or more accurately the Strata Management Company, decides when and what maintenance projects will be undertaken. At this point, a strata cleaning company enters your life like contestants on a dance show; their services provide cleanliness in your shared spaces at an additional cost. While you and other owners might appreciate not having to think about cleaning the pool or mowing the lawn on their own, you’re still paying someone else to do it. 

In conclusion, should your real estate investment be a strata complex? Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to that question. Your decision depends on many factors including financial goals, risk tolerance and your willingness to manage a Strata property – but with careful research and professional advice you may find a Strata complex can become your real-life Boardwalk! Just keep in mind – don’t get seduced by promises of high returns while neglecting potential risks!