Townhouses are generally more affordable than single-family homes and make homeownership more accessible for young families and other types of households. Their numerous advantages for buyers make them the darling of developers, who are building them both in cities and suburbs. Does its optimal use of space make it the perfect home for you?
A townhouse, you say?
A townhouse is a multi-level dwelling with one or more party walls with adjacent units. They’re arranged in rows to maximize living space in urban areas. This type of property is popular with people who want to own a home but with fewer maintenance responsibilities than a single-family house.
Discover 2 types of city dwellings
1. The semi-detached house
A semi-detached house is a building divided into two individual dwellings by a common wall and with separate entrances. Most often, the exterior of each unit is identical, but the interior layouts can be very different. They are particularly popular in urban areas where space is limited, and land is expensive.
The advantages:
More affordable than a single-family house
Minimal exterior maintenance
Large living space on several levels
Possibility of an outdoor space to enjoy
Easy to resell
Suitable for a wide range of buyers
2. Townhouse
How is it different from a semi-detached house? Townhouses are often built in groups of four adjoining units separated by common walls and, in most cases, include two floors and a basement. However, the groupings can be much larger with many more units and extend over an entire street, as seen in the downtown areas of Montreal and Quebec City.
Some townhouses are built on small lots, leaving no place for a backyard and others, with more space, may have a patio or a garden. It varies from one property to another.
The advantages:
Affordable
Minimal exterior maintenance
Close to services
Low energy costs
Possibility of shared facilities (e.g., pool, gym, playground)
An ideal choice to enjoy the vibrancy of city life
A townhouse is an excellent option for those who want to experience the vibrancy of city living. They’re often built in or near city centres, giving easy access to restaurants, shopping, entertainment and cultural events. For families who value convenience and want to live in a sought-after urban area, they are an affordable option.
Plus, these of properties can be situated close to business centres, allowing you to walk to work! You’ll also improve your quality of life by using public transportation and reducing your dependence on cars.
A functional, well-designed living space
Townhouses are usually smaller than single-family homes, but all the space is organized with optimal efficiency. The main floor plan is designed with an open concept to create an impression of spaciousness. Here are some ingenious ideas for optimizing small spaces.
Bedrooms are all on another floor away from the common living areas ensuring privacy. Many models have a basement office and bathrooms on every floor. They are conceived to make the most efficient use of space—compact but functional.
Storage space is plentiful, with cupboards and closets in every available nook and cranny. If you're struggling to take advantage of these spaces, here are 7 easy ways to declutter. Patios, gardens and spa areas are often set up on the property’s small outdoor space.
A practical lifestyle with shared facilities and services
Examples of shared facilities in townhouse developments include swimming pools, gyms, parks, playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, clubhouses, game rooms and picnic areas. Some townhouses also share maintenance services, such as landscaping, snow removal and exterior building maintenance.
Townhouse developments may also offer security services including gated access to the neighbourhood, security patrols and surveillance camera systems. These measures relieve owners of certain responsibilities and guarantee a safe, well-maintained environment.
A wise investment for the future
Townhouses tend to retain their value over time due to their location in desirable neighbourhoods and proximity to amenities. They are an attractive housing option for many buyers due to the low cost of maintenance and the potential to increase in value over the years.
The demand for this type of property is constantly growing. With the rising cost of living, many people find that townhouses are a more affordable alternative to single-family homes. They offer more space than apartments or condos, making them attractive to those looking for a more spacious living space.
The trend towards urbanization and densification in many cities also contributes to their popularity since they make building more homes on smaller lots possible. Is there a townhouse for sale that catches your eye? Go for a visit! And, keep this information in mind.
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