Condo Chat: Transition to Self-Management

Gateway South Centre moved to self-management after ongoing staffing issues and operational gaps with its management company left the Board heavily involved in day-to-day tasks. With complex Geo-Thermal systems and a need for better oversight, the Board sought a more proactive, efficient owner-operator model. Backed by strong financial stability and broad owner support, the corporation directly hired a dedicated General Manager through a professional search process.

Early actions focused on establishing strong governance and expert support: engaging legal and financial advisors, auditing building systems, transitioning accounts, and building relationships with engineers, contractors, and key service providers. A deep technical review of the Solar and Geo-Thermal infrastructure led to major improvements, cost savings, and more effective preventive maintenance.

Seven years later, Gateway South Centre has a mature, efficient operational framework with clearer Board-management roles, better control over major systems, and stronger project planning. This foundation has allowed the community to grow more engaged and connected, supported by open communication and resident-focused initiatives.

Self-management is not for every condominium—success requires sufficient size, financial strength, governance maturity, and the ability to hire qualified professionals. For Gateway South Centre, it has resulted in improved oversight, financial awareness, and a stronger overall community.

Presented by: Board of Directors and operations manager Wanda of Gateway South Centre

Topics

• What Prompted the Move to SELF MANAGEMENT? 
• Decision Was Made. WHAT’S NEXT? 
• Getting Started & Early Days

About Gateway South Centre

• This is a 4 & 6 story condo complex located in SE Bonavista neighborhood of Calgary.
• There are 500 condo units, 2 lounges, 2 guest suites, a very large fully equipped gym as well as 2 offices for employees.
• This concrete building is 18 years old and at the time it was built, it was one of the first, if not the first residential property in the province that had a Geo Thermal HVAC system.
• This is a large complex and very different than most other condo buildings not only in Calgary, but also in Alberta.
• We also have solar panels on the roof that assist with pre-heating hot water.
• We are a self managed corporation with on-site management personnel that are employed by GWSC. We have a GM, two Community Administrators and an Operations person.
• Just awarded Condo of the Year by Canadian Condominium Institute S. AB