Condos vs Townhomes in Toronto: Making the Best Choice | Filipe Sells

Condos & Townhomes in Toronto

Deciding between a condo and a townhome in Toronto? Let’s explore key differences, similarities, and factors to help you choose your ideal home.

Key Takeaway:

Condos are affordable, offer amenities, and require less maintenance.
Townhomes provide more space, privacy, and land ownership.
Condos dominate downtown; townhomes are prevalent in suburbs and midtown.
Average condo price: ~$750K; townhomes: ~$1.2M.

Understanding Condos and Townhomes

Ownership & Control

Condos mean owning just your unit’s interior. Shared ownership covers the building exterior and common areas, managed through monthly fees.

Townhomes provide ownership of your unit, land, and exterior. Freehold townhomes give full control, while stacked or condo-townhomes involve shared responsibilities.

Space & Privacy

Condos typically have smaller living spaces, shared walls, and high-rise living.

Townhomes offer multiple floors, private entrances, and sometimes outdoor spaces like yards or patios, providing greater privacy.

Costs and Maintenance

Financial Considerations

Condos are generally less expensive upfront. The average Toronto condo price is around $750,000, while townhomes average about $1.2 million.

Condos come with monthly fees ranging from $400-$700, covering maintenance, amenities, and insurance. Townhomes, particularly freehold, have lower fees but require personal responsibility for maintenance and repairs.

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Maintenance Responsibilities

Condo living includes maintenance-free exteriors, appealing to busy professionals. However, special assessments for major repairs can arise.

Townhomes, especially freehold, place all external maintenance on the homeowner. Condo-townhomes share upkeep costs through monthly fees.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Condo Amenities

Condos typically offer amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, and concierge services, ideal for residents seeking convenience and community.

Townhome Lifestyle

Townhomes rarely include extensive amenities but provide a home-like experience, with private entrances and often outdoor space, perfect for families or those desiring more personal space.

Location Preferences in Toronto

Condos are widely available downtown, near public transit, shopping, and entertainment—perfect for urban lifestyles.

Townhomes are more common in midtown neighborhoods like Leaside or suburbs like Scarborough and Etobicoke, ideal for quieter family-friendly environments.

Investment and Long-term Value

Freehold townhomes typically appreciate faster due to land ownership and scarcity, making them strong long-term investments.

Condos offer stability but face greater competition in resale, although they appeal to a broader range of buyers.

Who Should Choose What?

You Want…	Go For…	Why It Works For You
Lowest cost and minimal upkeep	Condo	Affordable, easy maintenance, great amenities
More space, privacy, outdoor areas	Townhome	Spacious, land ownership, home-like feel
Freedom to customize exteriors	Freehold townhouse	No HOA restrictions, full autonomy
Simpler upkeep of exteriors	Condo-townhome	Shared maintenance responsibilities
Downtown access and vibrant lifestyle	Condo	Central locations, transit-friendly
Suburban quietness, family-friendly	Townhome	Residential, peaceful environments

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing between condos and townhomes depends on your personal needs, lifestyle, budget, and future plans. Consider:

Your overall budget and monthly affordability.
The importance of space and privacy for your family.
Preferred amenities and daily convenience.
Desired neighborhood and community vibe.
Your willingness to handle home maintenance responsibilities.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

We’re here to help match you with the right Toronto home. Reach out today, and let’s find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget!