When buying a home, it’s important to know the different types that are offered, so you can pick the best one to suit your needs. There are tons of different styles of properties within Canada and each one of those properties has its own advantages, and disadvantages.
Detached Houses
Detached properties are always the most desirable for people who value privacy and space, and often come with a spacious backyard. They are built on their own lot and do not share any walls with their neighbours.
Pros: You have complete privacy, more space and a better chance of selling your home.
Cons: They are usually the most expensive and you are responsible for all the maintenance and taxes.
Best For: People who want privacy, extra space and a good chance of selling their home.
Bungalows, Split-Levels, and Plexes
These are variations of detached homes:
- Bungalows are one-storey homes(often with basements), with a main floor layout. These are often sought after by buyers wanting to avoid stairs and seniors who are downsizing.
- Split-level homes have larger living spaces, separated by staircases, separating bedrooms from the other levels of the home itself.
- Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes include multiple livable units within one structure. Some owners of these properties will rent out the additional dwelling units(ADU) to earn extra money on their investment or help supplement their mortgage payment while residing in one of the units themselves.
These types of homes are becoming increasingly desirable as the cost of living is growing, and the appeal of having extra income in your investment becomes a positive feature of the property.
Semi-Detached Homes
A semi-detached property is attached to a similar style home, but each has its own entrance and yard, most times with inverted layouts of each other.
Pros: Less expensive than detached homes. More space and privacy than condos or townhouses.
Cons:The shared wall can make noise travel and reduce privacy. Limited outdoor space
Best For: Young families, first-time buyers and those who want to save money
Townhouses
Townhouses which are also known as row houses, are homes that are attached to other units on both sides (though end unit townhomes are extra desirable at the end of the lots). They’re often part of planned developments with shared amenities.
Pros: Lower price than detached or semi-detached homes.
Private entrances and sometimes small yards or patios
Cons: Less privacy due to shared walls. May include road or condo fees
Ideal For: Urban buyers, downsizers, and anyone seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle
Types of Townhouses
Condominium Townhouses
- You own your unit but not the land.
- Exterior maintenance is handled by a condo corporation.
- Monthly maintenance fees cover landscaping and amenities.
Freehold Townhouses
- You own both the home and the land it sits on.
- No monthly condo fees, but you’re responsible for all upkeep.
Condominiums (Condos)
Condos are individually owned units within a larger building, such as a high-rise or mid-rise. Gyms, lobbies and parking are all shared and managed by the condo corporation.
Pros:It’s more affordable to buy a condo than a house. Access to amenities like pools, fitness centers and security
Cons:You have to pay monthly condo fees. Less control over repairs and property rules
Ideal For: Singles, professionals, retirees and city dwellers
Housing Costs in Hamilton (April 2025 Snapshot)
As of April 2024, the national average home price in Hamilton and surrounding area was $825,800 (Canadian Real Estate Association).
|
City |
Detached |
Condo |
Townhouse |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hamilton |
$825,800 |
$431,400 |
$624,000 |
|
Burlington |
$1,322,10 |
$591,600 |
$786,000 |
|
Niagara |
$863,800 |
$428,900 |
$615,000 |
|
Haldimand |
$699,500 |
$514,500 |
$539,700 |
You can use statistics from our real estate board RAHB to find out how much properties are selling for in your area to better educate yourself on the ongoing changes within our real estate market.
Things to Consider When Selecting a Home Type
Before choosing a house style, keep in mind:
Budget: Can you afford to pay for the mortgage, taxes, fees and ongoing maintenance?
Lifestyle: Do you require a private home with no neighbours or one with shared amenities?
Location: Does your location match your budget? Have you looked into surrounding areas for the best spot?
Future plans: Are you going to sell or is this a space you’ll live in for years to come?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the least expensive type of property you can buy? Mobile homes, Co-Ops, or condos are typically less expensive than buying a detached or semi-detached home.
- Can you get a mortgage on a mobile home or manufactured home? It depends on the company that owns the park. Yes, however, you may not qualify unless the home is permanently attached to the land.
- What makes condo townhouses different than freehold townhouses? With condo townhouses, you are responsible for the outside of your home and share costs with others. With a freehold, you own everything and are responsible for everything too.
- Is it worth paying condo fees? They can be, especially when you use the services and don’t want to worry about maintenance.
- Is living in a rural area less expensive than living in the city itself? Property is nearly always cheaper in rural areas outside of the major cities. The types of services available (municipal water, sewers, power lines, internet etc.) change depending on where you are looking to purchase a home.
When making the decision to purchase a home, you need to be considering: lifestyle, area growth, and the area and where you want to be in the future, not just the price tag that comes along with it. If you’re looking for a detached, condo or a manufactured home, it’ll be a busy journey to find something that suits you.
Reach out to us today and we can start making that home owning dream a reality.
