Learn about single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums, among other types of housing, in Canada.
As a popular destination for immigration, Canada offers a multitude of options for canada permanent residence, and choosing the right type of housing is a crucial step toward building a comfortable and secure future.
The country’s diverse real estate market presents an array of options for homeowners to select from. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned real estate investor, it is important to be knowledgeable about the various types of homes available in Canada in order to make an informed decision. In this article, we will explore the most popular types of housing found across Canada and make it easier for you to choose your dream home. So, let’s get started and discover the types of houses in Canada that can provide you with a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
Selecting the right housing for long-term residence in Canada is crucial for comfort and security. The diverse real estate market presents options with unique advantages. Detached houses offer privacy, ideal for families, while semi-detached homes balance room and privacy. Townhouses provide accessibility and affordability, bridging condos and larger homes. Condos offer customization freedom with considerations for condo fees. Bungalows, split-level, and plex buildings cater to diverse preferences. Explore apartments in Canada, which contribute to the rich variety of choices. Discover your ideal home for a seamless transition into your new Canadian life.
Types of houses in Canada
Detached
Separate from any other structures, detached houses stand alone. They provide more room and solitude and frequently have prices that reflect these advantages. You are exclusively responsible as the owner for maintenance, any accompanying land, and any additional property taxes, which might be more than for other types of dwelling. The sense of ownership that comes with having the entire house to themselves, however, is valued highly by many people. These homes are also perfect for families because they frequently have front and/or back yards.
Semi-detached
Semi-detached homes are two dwellings that are joined by a single wall and typically occupy a single structure. These homes are typically located at the end of a row of townhomes or terraced homes, and the two dwellings within the structure are separated by a wall. The exterior of the property typically features a shared fence that creates a private yard for the two homes. This type of housing is very common in Canada due to the fact that it offers more room and privacy than condos or plexus, while still providing fewer immediate neighbors than larger homes.
Townhouses
Townhouses also referred to as townhomes, are a row of residences that are connected by one or more shared walls. Typically, these residences provide more privacy than a semi-detached home, as there are fewer shared walls with neighboring homes. Townhouses are highly sought after due to their accessibility, appeal, proximity to city centers, flexibility, and affordability. Many townhomes have additional features such as sub-ground level garages, patios, or outdoor yard space. Townhouses at the end of a row may also be categorized as semi-detached residences, as they only share one wall with another property.
Condos
Residents of condos have the freedom to customize the interior of their suites, such as demolishing and constructing walls, as long as it does not threaten the stability of the building. Condos are generally found in high-rise or multi-unit structures, and the exterior and communal areas are owned and managed by a condo organization.
Make sure the building is of high quality and the seller has a solid reputation before considering buying a condo in Canada. Condo fees, which are normally between $0.30 and $0.75 per square foot per month and go towards building upkeep and repairs, should also be considered. The other occupants in the building, as well as the structure’s age and maintenance, are beyond of your direct control as a resident. One approach to affect the upkeep and clientele in your building is to join the condo board.
Condo Townhomes
Townhouses that are managed by a condo organization, and have communal facilities and grounds owned by the organization, differ from traditional townhomes. Instead of individuals owning each individual floor of a building, there may be several units stacked on top of one another. Residents must pay a monthly fee in order to contribute to the upkeep of the building and its grounds.
Bungalows
Detached bungalows are single-story dwellings, with some featuring basement levels. They are considered more affordable than other detached homes and are often seen in more rural areas. These homes offer the potential for more outdoor space than townhomes or other property forms, making them a popular choice for those who own acreages. Split-level or multi-story houses are however preferred by many homeowners.
Split-level
Split-level homes are not commonly found in the real estate market in Canada anymore, but they remain prevalent and have recently gained popularity. These houses come in various sizes and shapes with different configurations, and they usually feature a main floor spread out over multiple levels with internal steps. To utilize the vertical space efficiently, split-level homes typically have low-pitched roofs, integrated garages, expansive living and family rooms, and generous patio and yard areas.
Duplex, Triplex, Fourplex
In Canada, a duplex, triplex, and fourplex refer to buildings with two, three, and four apartments, respectively. However, there is some disagreement over whether a semi-detached house is the same as a duplex. Some consider semi-detached houses to be like side-by-side duplexes, while others view duplexes as buildings with two apartments stacked on top of each other. Regardless, a plex property refers to a structure that accommodates two, three, or four homes, each with its own entrance, which may span over several floors. These structures can be owned by one or more individuals who may choose to reside there or rent out the apartments. New construction of plex homes is becoming increasingly scarce across Canada.
Prices of homes in Canada
The average cost of a home in Canada varies by region and kind of house. The price of real estate has generally increased significantly in recent years, particularly in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The average cost of a home in Canada, as reported by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), was around $718,000 as of January 2022, an increase of 35.2% from the previous year. A single-detached home could be purchased for an average price of $1,168,000, according to the CREA, while a condominium could be purchased for an average price of $570,000. Although costs might vary greatly depending on the locale, Vancouver, Toronto, and Victoria, for example, have much higher average housing prices than other Canadian cities and rural areas.
Conclusion
From single-detached homes and townhouses to condominiums and plex buildings, Canada offers a wide variety of housing alternatives for people and families. There are still cheap options accessible in various parts of Canada, despite recent price hikes in the real estate market. In addition, Canada is a terrific place to live, offering a high standard of living, first-rate healthcare and educational offerings, and a friendly, multiethnic community. Numerous advantages come with moving to Canada, including possibilities for personal and professional development, a social safety net strength, and economic stability. Canada is a wonderful country to call home overall, offering a wide selection of housing alternatives to fit different lives and interests.