Townhouse vs. Condo Living: Which Option is Right for You?

Searching for the right place to call home is an exciting step, but with so many choices out there, it’s easy to feel a little unsure of where to start. For renters and real estate investors in Alberta, two popular alternatives to apartment living are townhouses and condominiums. Each comes with its own set of perks and considerations. Understanding the differences can help you make the best decision based on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the pros and cons, let’s clarify the difference between the two.

Townhouses are typically multi-level homes that share one or two walls with neighbouring units but offer a bit more privacy and space. Most include a small yard or outdoor area, and often come with a garage. Townhouse residents are usually responsible for maintaining their unit’s exterior, but many developments include a homeowner’s association (HOA) that handles common areas and services.

Condos (Condominiums), on the other hand, are individual units within a larger building or complex. They tend to offer a more “apartment-style” living experience, often with shared amenities like fitness centres, underground parking, and security. Condo residents pay monthly condo fees that cover maintenance, amenities, and building insurance.

Lifestyle Considerations

Your day-to-day lifestyle plays a big role in determining which option suits you best.

If you prefer a quieter, more residential feel with a little outdoor space for gardening or relaxing, a townhouse might be the way to go. They often feel more like single-family homes, which is appealing to families or those who enjoy a bit more room to spread out.

Condos, meanwhile, tend to attract professionals, students, and people who value convenience and amenities. If you’d rather spend your weekends exploring the city instead of mowing the lawn, condo living offers a lower-maintenance lifestyle.

Cost and Maintenance

Budget is always a key factor. In general, condos are typically more affordable upfront, but they do come with condo fees that can add to your monthly expenses. These fees usually cover things like snow removal, landscaping, building repairs, and access to shared amenities.

Townhouses can sometimes be more expensive up front, but if they come with lower HOA fees (or none at all), you might have more flexibility in how your money is spent each month. Keep in mind that with a townhouse, you may be responsible for more of the exterior upkeep yourself.

Privacy and Space

Another important distinction is the level of privacy. Townhouses generally offer more separation from neighbours, both physically and acoustically. You often get your own entrance and yard, and typically don’t have anyone living above or below you.

Condos tend to be more compact, but they make smart use of space—making them a great choice for singles or couples who don’t need a large footprint. While you’ll likely share walls—and sometimes floors or ceilings—with neighbours, this close proximity can actually be a plus. Having others nearby often adds a sense of community and an extra layer of security.

Location and Community

Condos are often located in central areas or close to transit hubs, making them ideal for those who want to be near work, school, or city nightlife. They also tend to foster a strong sense of community, with shared spaces that encourage interaction.

Townhouses are frequently found in suburban areas, providing a more laid-back environment and potentially more square footage. If you're looking for peace and quiet or a family-friendly neighbourhood, townhome living might be more your speed.

So… Which One’s Right for You?

At the end of the day, the decision between a townhouse and a condo comes down to your personal needs and lifestyle preferences. Do you want space and privacy, or convenience and amenities? Are you ready to take on some yardwork, or would you prefer a maintenance-free setup?

If you're still not sure, our team at REMAX Rental Advisors is always happy to help. We manage a wide range of rental properties in Alberta, including both townhouses and condos, and we’d be happy to match you with the right fit based on your needs and lifestyle preferences.