What classifies a Townhouse?
There are many different perspectives on what defines a townhouse. Some definitions describe townhouses as being defined by the fact that they are attached homes with more than one level of living space. Others distinguish them as being designed as part of a row of homes, being joined to one another by side walls. Yet others define them as anything that is attached living, but not otherwise described as a condominium.
It’s important for you to know how VancouverTownhouse.ca defines townhouses, we classify townhouses as follows:
A Townhouse is defined as any strata-titled detached or attached housing property that forms part of a cluster of homes sharing some common grounds. A townhouse has its own private entrance accessed directly from the street or a courtyard area and may offer one or more than one level of living space.
Examples of homes that we consider to be townhouses:
- A half-duplex
- Any unit that makes up part of a triplex, fourplex, or multiplex
- A coach house that is situated on the same lot as another home.
- Any unit with its own entrance that is attached to the ground level of a hi-rise or condominium building
- Any unit that is part of a townhouse or rowhouse complex
Benefits of Townhouse Living
The following is a collection of things that make townhouse and duplex living in Vancouver desirable. From our experience, these are the most common reasons Buyers chose to search for a townhouse rather than other types of properties.
Accessible & Convenient Many townhouses have their own private street entrance, often without having to use an elevator or stairs, and many have unrestricted street parking in front.
- Walk-in, walk-out feel
- Great for loading and unloading
- Avoid hassles of waiting for elevators
- An individualized and unique street address
- Convenient for visitors and deliveries
Affordable Simply put, townhouses are generally more affordable than single family homes and are often available at a better price per square foot than condos of similar age and construction. Bottom line? You get more for your money with a townhouse.
Unique Spaces More unique spaces and floor plans than condos, townhouses often have features like multiple levels and split levels, vaulted ceilings, and skylights. Their layouts are often one-of-a-kind and are great for those that are tired of cookie-cutter homes.
Spacious Because they are able to have unique layouts, townhouses are often able to offer more rooms and more square footage than is possible in a condo. They often span multiple floors of living space as well, making them feel much more like a house than a condo.
Outdoor Living Townhomes usually have larger and more natural outdoor spaces than condos, including ground-level and rooftop patios and/or garden spaces. Many have plants, trees and grassy areas that are great for relaxing and entertaining. They are ideal for those that love the outdoors, sunbathing, gardening, barbequing and entertaining. These type of activities are often limited or eliminated in condo living.
Low Maintenance Townhouses by their very nature as strata properties offer shared ownership of common areas. Maintenance and repair of these areas are typically shared amongst all owners and the care and upkeep of these areas are typically delegated to a property management company and/or maintenance staff. This means that your responsibility to maintain the building and common areas is much less than with a single family home.
Peaceful & Private Townhouses and duplexes are lower density living than condos. This means that you often have fewer direct neighbours and they may even be located in quieter areas. This usually results in less pedestrian traffic, fewer noise issues and disturbances and a generally more natural setting.
|