What Realtors in BC Want to See in a Building Condition Assessment
- ENGIPRO
- Oct 17
- 2 min read
Buyers Fear the Unknown
Imagine showing a buyer a condo in a 30-year-old building. The unit is freshly renovated, but the buyer pauses: “What about the plumbing? The roof? Any upcoming special levies?”
This hesitation is why realtors increasingly ask strata councils for Building Condition Assessments (BCAs). A strong BCA reassures buyers and arms realtors with facts—not guesses.
The Key BCA Elements Realtors Value Most
Reserve Fund Forecasts
Realtors want to show buyers whether the strata’s CRF is healthy or under pressure. Transparency prevents last-minute deal collapses.
Lifecycle Data
Buyers care about when expensive systems—roofs, elevators, piping—will need replacement. A BCA provides credible timelines.
Risk Ratings
A colour-coded system (urgent, near-term, long-term) makes it easy to grasp big risks at a glance.
Proof of Maintenance
A BCA highlighting completed work (new boilers, reroofing) helps realtors justify pricing and reassure buyers.
Engineering Seal
Reports signed by Professional Engineers (P.Eng) carry more credibility with buyers, banks, and insurers.
Case Example: A Vancouver Sale That Almost Fell Through
A Kitsilano buyer nearly walked away after reading vague AGM minutes about “possible piping issues.” The strata provided a BCA showing copper piping had a 20-year remaining lifespan and proactive maintenance plans. Confidence restored—the sale closed in a week.
Why Realtors Push for BCAs
Fewer buyer walkaways due to surprise fears
Smoother negotiations with data on the table
Higher sale prices when buyers trust the building
FAQ
Q: Can a BCA replace a Depreciation Report?
A: No—but together they provide the most complete picture.
Q: Do small strata need BCAs?
A: Yes—buyers are even more cautious with small CRFs.
Conclusion
Realtors know: trust sells. A Building Condition Assessment turns uncertainty into clarity, making buyers more willing to commit—and helping strata owners protect value.
Other Resources:
BCFSA – Buying a Strata Property Guide - https://www.bcfsa.ca/public-resources/real-estate
BC Housing – BCA Guide - https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/asset-management-redevelopment/construction-standards
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