5 Types of Houses to Consider for Your Next Home in the GTA

February 28, 2023

Are You Looking to Invest in Preconstruction Homes in the Greater Toronto Area?

The Canadian real estate market offers a wide selection of homes and apartments for those looking to buy a home. There is something for everyone, from townhouses and detached homes to duplexes and condominiums.

Your preferred home depends on your budget, space, location, and desired features.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular homes for sale in Canada.

Detached Homes in Canada

Detached homes are the most common type of housing in Canada. These homes offer the most privacy and space, with a standalone structure and private outdoor areas at the front and back.

They are also the most expensive and come in different shapes and heights. Property taxes are higher for detached homes because you own both the land and the highly-valued home. Maintenance and upkeep are your sole responsibility.

Types of detached homes include:

Old-Fashioned Cottages: Traditional homes, often located in the countryside, featuring a massive deck.
1.5 Storey Buildings: These have an additional upper floor that is half the size of the first floor, typically used for a bedroom. This option is preferred by house hunters who don’t want to build a full second floor.
Split-Level Homes: Homes where the main floor area is split by a few stairs leading to sleeping areas upstairs. Living and cooking areas are on the main floor, with additional stairs leading to the basement. These can be either side-split or back-split designs.
Traditional Bungalows: These are old-fashioned homes with minimal stairs. Living spaces and sleeping areas are on one level, with the possibility of a few stairs leading to an additional bedroom.
Two-story Homes: The most common type of detached home, featuring a basement below, living and cooking areas on the main floor, and bedrooms on the highest floor.

Semi-Detached Homes in Canada

Semi-detached homes consist of two houses that share a wall from the back or side. Essentially, it is a detached home split into two units, with each family having its own private entrance.

Semi-detached homes typically still have private front and backyards but share a fence and driveway. These homes are more affordable than fully detached homes.

Townhouses in Canada

Townhouses are two- or three-story buildings that share walls on either side unless your unit is at the rear. Townhouses have fewer amenities, full-time staff, and fewer services, which leads to lower maintenance fees compared to condos.

They differ from row houses as they don’t share a facade, and the buildings are not uniform. Townhouses are also built in groupings rather than rows. They may or may not have front or backyards or a rooftop patio. In the Greater Toronto Area, townhouses are categorized into two main types: freehold and condominium townhouses.

Freehold Townhouses in the GTA

Freehold townhouses, also known as single-family homes, give you ownership of both the land and the building. You are responsible for all maintenance, upkeep, and utilities.

Condominium Townhouses in the GTA

Condominium townhouses involve different financial and legal arrangements. You own part of the condo (the interior) and pay monthly maintenance fees for shared amenities such as parking, the front yard, water, sewage, and garbage services. A portion of this fee is allocated to the condo reserve fund for significant renovations, while the condo corporation maintains the exterior.

Stacked Townhouses in the GTA

Stacked townhouses are two or more units stacked on top of each other, each owned by different individuals. Builders divide each townhouse into two or three levels, all with private entrances and open spaces. These are more affordable than conventional two-story buildings and are increasingly popular in the GTA.

Condominiums in the GTA

Condominiums are large buildings containing many units, sometimes exceeding 50. Each unit has a different owner, while common areas and amenities like gyms, play areas, lounges, and outdoor spaces are shared. These common areas are maintained by the condo corporation, and residents pay a monthly maintenance fee for these services.

If you’re considering investing in a condominium or exploring available units, The Realty Bulls can help guide you through the process and connect you with the best opportunities in the market.

Duplex, Triplex, and Fourplex in the GTA

These homes consist of two, three, or four units, respectively, under a single roof. Each unit has a separate entrance. Patios and backyards may be exclusive to a single unit. Typically, these homes are owned by one individual who rents out the additional units.

Next Steps

If you’re planning to buy a home in the Greater Toronto Area, consider your options carefully. Speak with a reputable real estate agent—it’s an important step.