Ontario boards, simplified: Essential tips and insights for condominium boards

FirstService Residential is redefining property management for Ontario’s townhomes and high-rises by combining local expertise with the scale and depth of resources boards need to thrive. To bring these insights closer to Ontario communities, we spoke with Stacey Kurck, vice president, client engagement and business development. Stacey has five years with FirstService and more than twenty-five years in the industry. She grew up in Oakville, teaches CMRAO-aligned courses through Humber College, and serves on the CCI Toronto board, where she champions practical board education for directors.
 

Condominium board tips and insights: An interview with Stacey Kurck on community management, legislation and the integrated model

What does modern community management mean for Ontario?

"It means aligning condominium management with property services in an integrated model where the manager, cleaning services, concierge, security, and the front desk work together as one-team. Our technology and the FirstService Residential Connect portal keep records, amenity bookings, project updates, and resident alerts centralised for both townhomes and high-rises."

Stacey Kurck, vice president, client engagement and business development
  

Why combine local presence with scale and depth of resources?

"Boards need neighbourhood insight and dependable depth. We are locally based in the GTA and backed by a public company, so we invest in systems, training, and specialist teams. That translates into consistent operations, vendor vetting, and long-term capital planning that smaller providers cannot always sustain."

Learn more about how we combine local expertise and global resources to deliver trusted property management services on our page here.
 

What recent legislation is shaping board decisions in Ontario?

"The Condominium Act, 1998 remains central. Permanent amendments effective October 1, 2023 under the Less Red Tape, Stronger Economy Act modernised electronic owner meetings, electronic voting, and electronic delivery of notices. Boards should also note Bill 72, which partially extended the window to proclaim certain unproclaimed changes related to shared facilities, requisitioned meetings, and the non-leased voting unit director seat. We provide templates and workflows that help boards apply these rules clearly."

Read our article 'Understanding Ontario condo bylaws, the declaration, rules, and more' to learn more about local legislation impacting the industry and insights into how we support compliance.
 

How does technology simplify daily work for boards and residents?

"Technology is a game-changer for Ontario communities. Our Connect portal centralises records, financials, and amenity bookings, while ConnectMobile gives managers and residents on-the-go access to updates. PayScan streamlines invoice approvals for boards, reducing delays and paperwork. Plus, HODA, our 24/7 homeowner digital assistant, answers routine questions instantly; improving response times and freeing managers to focus on strategic community management."

How do you tackle budget pressure for aging buildings and aging in place?

"Reserve funds are under strain from construction inflation and labour costs. CAO guidance and sector analysis show higher contribution rates and more special assessments or loans to meet capital needs. We assist boards in forecasting the maintenance needs of building envelopes, elevators, and HVAC systems, and in developing comprehensive multi-year plans that safeguard capital investments and facilitate residents’ ability to age in place."

Learn more about creating successful condo corporation budgets in our article here.
 

What are you hearing from communities that transition to FirstService?

"The most common issues are lack of experience, manager turnover, and concerns with financial accuracy. Our one-team approach stabilises onsite service, while standardised processes and quality assurance in FirstService Connect portal strengthen documentation and reporting. The result is fewer surprises and stronger governance."

Want to learn more about property management transitions? Visit our page here for information on how we simplify the process.
 

How does regulation affect manager competency and continuity?

"CMRAO now requires two calendar years of supervised experience for new general licence applicants starting October 1, 2025, and general licensees must complete continuing professional education annually. Our scale and depth of resources let us recruit, train, and back up managers so boards experience fewer disruptions."

Read our article 'How to become a condo manager in Ontario: A comprehensive guide' to learn more about education, requirements, and more.
 

What should boards ask their management company to ensure long-term support?

"Boards should confirm that their management partner offers clear communication protocols, transparent financial reporting, and proactive planning for future needs. Ask if they provide ongoing board education and training resources to strengthen governance. Ensure they use technology for real-time updates and resident engagement. These elements help boards maintain stability, reduce risk, and build a strong foundation for long-term community success."

Visit our Ontario board members page to learn more about the services and support we provide to boards every day.
 

How do vendor vetting and property services improve outcomes?

"Reliable vendors and onsite property services reduce delays and cost overruns. Our preferred networks and standard operating procedures keep cleaning, security, concierge, and maintenance aligned with board priorities and reserve planning."

Where does FirstService support communities across Ontario?

We proudly serve Mississauga, Hamilton, Toronto, the GTA, Waterloo, Oakville, Etobicoke, and Downtown Toronto. Downtown high-rises often prioritise concierge, security, and amenity scheduling with rigorous cleaning services. Glen Abbey and River Oaks in Oakville include family townhomes that rely on predictable operations and high-touch client services. Port Credit and Lakeview focus on waterfront maintenance and seasonal planning, while Appleby and Burlington blend mature condos and townhomes that depend on reserve strength and efficient Property services delivered as one-team.
 

Property management reviews: Two voices from Ontario corporations

"Responsive and proactive Property services. Our meetings run smoother and front desk operations are consistent."

A. T., president, YRSCC 1144, York Region

"A true partner in community management. Staff greet residents warmly, managers communicate clearly, and operations stay on budget."

D. E., MTCC 1404, Toronto

Interested in property management for your Ontario condominium? Contact us today to learn more.

About Stacey: Stacey develops Ontario market strategies and leads initiatives that elevate client services and continuous community growth. Prior to FirstService, she founded a boutique firm focused on condominium management across the GTA. She is a registered Condominium Manager, a CCI Toronto board director, and a Humber College facilitator for CMRAO-aligned courses. She grew up in Oakville and competes in triathlons across Ontario.