Strata Living: What It Is, How It Works & What You’ll Pay

March 26, 2025
By Jones Editorial Team
3 min read

If you’ve ever thought, “Strata sounds complicated”—you’re not alone.

Whether it’s concerns about unknown costs or simply wondering how it all works, strata properties can sometimes feel like a mystery.

But here’s the simple truth…

Strata is a form of property ownership where you own your individual apartment, townhouse, or unit while sharing responsibility for common areas such as lobbies, gardens, lifts, and pools.

A strata scheme governs how these shared spaces are managed and maintained.

Think of it as a structure that protects your community—with a pooled fund in place to keep the building in top condition for years to come.

There are fees, by-laws, and rules that affect everything from maintenance to renovations—even pet approvals. While this might sound overwhelming, understanding how strata works upfront can help you avoid unexpected surprises.

That’s exactly what we breakdown in this video episode.

Watch as Nicole Jones explains strata in a way that’s easy to understand—you’ll walk away feeling like an expert!

In our latest video, Nicole covers:

✅ Strata ownership explained – What it is and how it differs from owning a standalone home.
✅ Key checks before buying – What to look for in a strata scheme to ensure you’re making an informed decision.
✅ Why strata matters – The purpose of strata and how a well-managed one can enhance your property’s long-term value.
✅ Understanding strata fees – What they cover, typical costs in new developments, and when they might increase (investors, remember this is a tax-deductible expense!).
✅ Rules & restrictions – What you need to know before buying, including policies on renovations, Airbnb, and pet approvals.
✅ Building maintenance – How upkeep is handled, who’s responsible for what, and what to expect as an owner.
✅ The Council of Owners – Their role, how they’re elected, and why they’re important to your strata community.
✅ The role of Strata Managers – What they do to keep the property running smoothly.
✅ AGMs & EGMs – What these meetings involve and why they matter for strata owners.

If you’re starting from ground zero with Strata, not really sure what to expect or how it all works—this video is for you.

I hope this conversation helps you better understand strata properties!

 

Request an Apartment Suitability Consult

If you get some great insights from this video, I’d highly recommend checking out some of our other resources and videos here.

Is a Strata Property Right for You?

Strata living is ideal if you want a low-maintenance lifestyle, access to shared amenities, and a community-style living environment.

It’s perfect for those who prefer a lock-and-leave lifestyle—eliminating the responsibilities of maintaining a house with a backyard and freeing up more time to do the things you enjoy without worrying about your property, such as traveling.

If brand-new developments are on your radar, strata living can also be a great way to own a modern home with built-in maintenance.

If you’re on the path to finding a strata property—whether to live in or invest—be sure to stop by our Projects Hub to explore the range of apartments and townhouses we’re currently selling off-the-plan.

Featured Apartment & Townhouse Projects

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Explore our projects

Are you ready to find your new property? Head over to our projects hub to explore the latest apartments and townhouses we’re selling.

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Jeremy Wealleans
Mortgage Broker

Jeremy Wealleans brings more than 40 years of experience across banking, finance broking, business development and leadership.

Jeremy’s understanding of both lender and broker perspectives supports Jones clients across property development, investment and home ownership. By connecting the right people, building strategic partnerships and identifying practical finance pathways, Jeremy helps clients make informed decisions and move forward with greater confidence.

With a strong focus on relationships and long-term outcomes, Jeremy adds valuable finance expertise to Jones’ end-to-end approach to property.

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With 12 years working as an accountant for a Swiss manufacturing company – solutions for people, property and infrastructure protection, Christina brings a wealth of knowledge and precision to Jones Realty & Projects.

Her extensive background also includes accounting roles in construction, landscaping, glazing, and recruitment, where she honed her skills through navigating complex accounting standards.

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Emily’s knack for connecting with clients means she doesn’t just get the job done—she makes the whole experience easy and enjoyable.

Fueled by a genuine love for property (and a good coffee!), she’s dedicated to making every step of your journey smooth, stress-free, and even a little fun. Whether it’s answering questions or anticipating your needs, Emily’s here to make sure you feel right at home with us.

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She brings a diverse skillset, drawing from her experience across radio, health and cosmetics, hospitality, and transport.

As an Executive Producer in broadcasting, Brooke handled unique situations that taught her how to manage anything life decides to throw her way.

She loves a challenge and is passionate about real estate, always eager to learn as much as she can to help our clients achieve their property goals.

Simon Atkins
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Simon’s passion for property has driven him to invest, develop, and renovate for himself since 1996. Over the years, he’s built a substantial portfolio, learning valuable strategies through hands-on experience in the Perth market.

Simon enjoys sharing this knowledge with clients, helping them navigate their own investment journeys with confidence and clarity. He’s approachable, supportive, and committed to making property investment accessible and rewarding for everyone.

Simon finds real satisfaction in seeing his clients achieve their goals and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure they’re set up for success.

Annette Henshall
Property Partner

Annette’s career background has centered in and around property and property development. With a natural love for real estate and an enthusiastic, genuine nature she is inherently suited to the property industry. With over a decade’s worth of residential, project sales and property development experience.

Annette’s aim is to ensure every one of her clients are set on a firm path towards successful property ownership and investment using her knowledge of the local market, her exceptional attention to detail, high level of professional service and strong negotiation skills.

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Hayley Patrick
Marketing Director

Marketer Of The Year REIA Awards 2026 & REIWA Awards 2025

A decade in, and I still believe marketing is only as good as the results it delivers. As Marketing Director, I turn blank slates into sought-after addresses.

My approach is hands-on, strategic, and focused on the end game: make every campaign, asset, and customer touchpoint count. Brand strategies that reach the right market, campaigns that move the needle, tools that convert, and a relentless focus on measurable impact. Every off-the-plan project has a story.

My job? Make sure it’s the one buyers remember, and act on. Named REIWA’s 2025 Marketer of the Year and the 2026 REIA National Marketer of the Year — what drives me is the opportunity to keep raising the bar for off-the-plan marketing in WA.

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Nicole Jones
Director/Licensee

Top 1% Salesperson REIWA Awards 2025

Nicole prides herself on providing incomparable customer service through a hands on, professional approach to ensure your biggest asset is in the best hands and that you’re a part of the process, every step of the way.

She has created and aligned herself with a strong network of business professionals and an overseas network with direct channels to China, Singapore and Hong Kong to create a complete solution for your real estate journey.

Her philosophy is there is no luck in real estate when finding the right solutions for you, regardless of your property needs. It is the direct result of a carefully planned and well executed process.

Steve Jones
Managing Director

As an award winning businessman and Realtor Steve provides Strategic Project Marketing and Project Sales feasibility solutions across many of Perth markets.

His business is built on dedication, communication, determination, knowledge & most all TRUST. His ability to cater and adapt to all of his clients needs is an essential asset he possesses.

Just as the Real Estate industry evolves to become more digital and cutting edge so does Steve. His knowledge of all forms of property and development across the landscape provides his clients with the knowledge and confidence of them reaching and exceeding their real estate expectations.