Types of Homes
When I work with buyers, I find it helpful to walk through the different types of homes available and what they mean in practical terms. Each option comes with its own structure, responsibilities, and way of living. Understanding these differences can make your decision feel much clearer.
Single-Family Detached
A single-family detached home stands on its own, with no shared walls and its own piece of land. In most cases, this is what people picture when they think of owning a home.
Some detached homes are part of a strata development, where owners share responsibility for things like roads or common spaces. More often, they sit on individual lots within a municipality and receive standard services.
What many people appreciate here is the sense of independence. You have the space to enjoy your property and make decisions without needing approval from others, within local regulations of course.
Duplex
A duplex is a home that shares a wall with another unit. These can be arranged side by side, one above the other, or even front to back.
They are often more accessible in price than a fully detached home, though they do require some cooperation with a neighbouring owner. In some cases, buyers choose to purchase both sides of a duplex, which can provide an opportunity for rental income.
With a half-duplex, it is helpful to be comfortable with shared responsibilities and a closer living arrangement.
Townhouse
Townhomes are individual homes connected in a row, each with its own entrance and living space. They often include a small yard or patio for your personal use.
Many townhomes are part of a strata, where a monthly fee covers exterior maintenance, landscaping, and shared services. This can be a good fit if you would like the feel of a home without taking on all of the upkeep yourself.
I often see this as a balanced option for those who want space and comfort, along with a bit of support in maintaining the property.
Modular Home
A modular home is built in sections at a factory and then assembled on a permanent foundation. Today, many of these homes are thoughtfully designed and can look very similar to traditional site-built homes.
They can be found in a variety of settings, including established neighbourhoods and newer developments.
Manufactured or Mobile Home
Manufactured homes are also built off-site and placed on a foundation, often within a designated community or park. Some are single-wide, while others offer more space.
Mobile homes are built on a steel frame and can be relocated, though many remain in one place long-term.
These homes can offer a more accessible entry point into ownership. It is worth noting that financing can differ from traditional homes, so I always recommend discussing this with your lender early on.
Apartment or Condominium
A condominium is a self-contained home within a larger building or development. You own your individual unit and share ownership of common areas such as hallways, amenities, and outdoor spaces.
There is usually a monthly fee that contributes to maintenance and services like water, landscaping, and building upkeep.
For many people, this offers a simpler lifestyle with fewer day-to-day responsibilities.
Forms of Ownership
Alongside the type of home, it is also important to understand how ownership is structured.
Freehold
With freehold ownership, you own both the home and the land it sits on. There are no shared common areas, and you have greater freedom to make changes, as long as they follow local regulations.
Detached homes and many duplexes fall into this category.
Condominium
Condominium ownership means you own your individual unit, along with a shared interest in the common areas of the development.
A strata or condo council helps manage the property, and owners contribute through monthly fees. This structure is common with apartments, townhomes, and some planned communities.
Each of these options offers a different way of living. My role is to help you understand how they fit with your goals so that your choice feels comfortable and well suited to your life.