C O M M U N I T Y CHAT
Translating terms from the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Across North America, there are community associations of various shapes and sizes—this lifestyle now spans the
globe! In the United States, Canada, and Mexico, these neighborhoods and developments share similarities, like a
group of leaders, a guidebook of rules, and lawful oversight.
However, community associations in these three countries have cultural and legal differences, which directly affect
language and terminology. The terms we use to describe community associations and their operations vary from one
country to the next. Whether you're looking to buy a condo in Cabo or are curious to know if Canadian neighborhoods
function the same way as yours, understanding the nuanced community association language can help you make
informed decisions, communicate effectively, and ease collaboration abroad. Here are five overarching concepts
specific to community associations and the terminology our North American countries use for them.
34 COMING HOME MAGAZINE