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When you start thinking about a move, it’s easy to focus on the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and square footage. But one of the most important questions is often overlooked. How do you want to live day to day?
For many Niagara homeowners who are considering a move, especially those looking to rightsize, the choice often comes down to three popular condo options: a bungalow, a townhome or an apartment.
Each one offers something different and the right choice depends less on the size of the home and more on the lifestyle you want.
Bungalow Living
Bungalows continue to be popular because they offer the convenience of having most - or all of your everyday living space on one level.
A bungalow may be a good fit if you value fewer stairs, a main-floor bedroom and laundry room, private outdoor space and direct access to a garage or driveway. Many people also appreciate having a basement for storage, hobbies, visiting family or additional living space.
Because its condominium living, most of the outside responsibilities will be looked after like, landscaping, snow removal and exterior maintenance, making a condo bungalow an appealing choice for someone who wants the feel of a house but without as much upkeep.
Townhome Living
A townhome can offer a nice balance between a traditional house and condominium living. Depending on the style, you may still have your own front entrance, garage, patio or backyard while enjoying fewer exterior maintenance responsibilities.
Some townhomes offer main-floor primary bedrooms, while others have bedrooms upstairs. For Buyers thinking ahead, it is worth considering whether stairs will work comfortably for the long term.
Townhomes can also provide more living space than an apartment condo while still allowing homeowners to leave some of the exterior maintenance to the condominium corporation.
Apartment Condo Living
For someone who wants to simplify day to day home maintenance, an apartment condo can be an appealing option.
There is no lawn to cut, driveway to shovel or exterior maintenance to look after. Many condo apartment buildings also offer amenities such as underground parking, storage lockers, fitness rooms or pools.
Apartment living can also make it easier to travel because you can lock the door and leave without worrying as much about what needs to be done around the property.
When comparing apartment condos, it’s important to look beyond the monthly condo fee. Find out exactly what is included. Some fees may cover water, building insurance, parking cable tv, internet, while others may include much less.
Think About the Way You Live Now
The best home is not necessarily the largest one or the newest one. It’s the one that works for the way you want to live.
Ask yourself
Do I want a yard or would I rather have someone else take care of the grounds?
Is main-floor living important to me?
Do I need a garage?
How much storage space do I really use?
Do I travel frequently?
Would I enjoy having amenities or common areas nearby?
How much maintenance do I want to continue doing?
Your answers to these questions can help narrow down the style of home that may suit you best.
Rightsizing is About More Than Square Footage
Moving to a different type of home does not necessarily mean giving something up.
For many Buyers, rightsizing means choosing a home that better reflects how they want to life their life - moving forward. That might mean fewer stairs, less property maintenance, better access to amenities, more opportunities to travel or simply having less unused space to look after.
A bungalow, townhome and apartment condo can each offer a very different lifestyle. The key is finding the one that makes your life easier and works for the years ahead.
If you are considering a move within the Niagara Region and are not sure which type of condo would suit you best, I would be happy to help you explore the options - call me when you’re ready to discuss your future!