When you move to a new country, getting a comfortable place to stay is one of the most important thing to make you feel safe, comfortable, and at home.

For that, you need to know what types and kinds of housing Canada has to offer.

Canada’s diverse real estate market offers a variety of housing options, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. From traditional houses to modern apartments, let’s delve into the different types of homes available across the country.

Types of Properties

1. Apartments

Mississauga’s “Absolute World” Apartments. Source: Wikimedia

Apartments are what we used to call “Flats” in India. Apartments are rental units within a building, managed by a property owner or rental company. They come in various sizes, from studios to multi-bedroom units.

Apartments offer flexibility and are ideal for those who prefer not to commit to long-term ownership. They often include amenities such as security, maintenance services, and recreational facilities.

An example of how an apartment may look from the inside. Source: Unsplash

Renting an apartment is a practical choice for students, young professionals, and those in transitional phases of life.

1.1. Multiplex Apartments

A multiplex apartment is a residential building that contains multiple separate units within a single structure, typically ranging from two to four units, though larger multiplexes exist.

A Multiplex Apartment building in Montreal. Source: Wikimedia

Each unit functions as an independent home with its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living spaces. Multiplex apartments offer the benefits of shared maintenance costs and amenities, making them an efficient and affordable housing option for renters or homeowners looking for rental income.

Types of Multiplex Apartments

Depending on how many units a single building is divided into, you are likely to encounter the following types of multiplex apartments:

• Duplex: divided into 2 units.

• Triplex: divided into 3 units.

• Fourplex: divided into 4 units.

• Fiveplex: divided into 5 units.

• Sixplex: divided into 6 units.

• Multiplex (7+ units): divided into 7 or more units.

2. Townhouses

Townhouses are homes with multiple levels belonging to the same unit, that share walls with adjacent units.

A Townhouse in Markham. Source: Wikimedia

They are often found in urban areas and provide a more affordable option in comparison to detached and semi-detached houses. Townhouses typically feature a private entrance, a small backyard or patio, and communal amenities such as playgrounds or gardens. They offer a compact living space suitable for small families, couples, or individuals who prefer a community-like atmosphere.

3. Row Houses

Row houses are a series of identical or mirror-image homes that share side walls with adjacent units. They are commonly found in urban areas and provide a middle ground between single-family homes and apartment living.

A Rowhouse in Corktown. Source: Wikimedia

Row houses offer a private entrance and often include small front and backyards. They are an attractive option for families and individuals looking for a blend of affordability and community living. The shared walls help reduce heating and cooling costs, but residents may experience some noise from neighbours.

The only real difference between a Townhouse and a Rowhouses is that townhouses might not be exactly the same—they can differ in height, stories, and width, whereas row houses are uniformly laid out.

4. Semi-Detached Houses

Semi-detached houses are single-family homes that share one wall with another dwelling.

A Semi-Detatched House in Mimico. Source: Wikimedia

They offer a balance between the privacy of a detached house and the affordability of a townhouse. Semi-detached homes often come with a small yard and provide more space than townhouses, making them a popular choice for young families. The shared wall helps reduce heating and cooling costs, but noise can sometimes be an issue.

5. Detached Houses

Detached houses are standalone structures that do not share walls with any other dwelling. They often come with private yards and more space, both indoors and outdoors, making them ideal for families.

A Detached Housein Saskatoon. Source: Wikimedia

These homes offer a high degree of privacy and the freedom to modify the property as desired. However, they typically come with higher maintenance costs and responsibilities, such as lawn care and exterior repairs.

Types of Detached Houses

1. Bungalows

Bungalows are single-story houses that provide easy accessibility and a spacious layout. They are ideal for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer not to navigate stairs.

William Elizabeth Plows’ Bungalow in New Westminster, British Columbia. Source: Wikimedia

Bungalows often come with a yard and ample outdoor space, making them suitable for gardening enthusiasts. They offer a cozy and convenient living environment, although they may have a larger footprint on the property compared to multi-story homes.

2. Ranch

Ranch houses are single-story homes that feature a long, low-profile design. They are typically built on large lots, offering ample outdoor space and a connection to nature.

A Ranch in Alberta. Source: Wikimedia

Ranch houses often include large windows and sliding glass doors to enhance natural light and outdoor views. These homes are ideal for individuals seeking easy accessibility and a spacious, open floor plan. They provide a comfortable living environment, with all main rooms on one level, making them suitable for aging in place.

3. Cottages

A cottage, often referred to as a “cabin” in some regions, is a small, typically rustic vacation home located in rural or semi-rural areas.

Otto Reiher Cottage in Edmonton, Alberta. Source: Wikimedia

Cottages are usually situated near lakes, forests, or mountains, providing a retreat from urban life. They often feature simple, cozy interiors and emphasize outdoor living with amenities like decks, docks, or fire pits, ideal for seasonal use and recreational activities.

4. Farmhouses

A farmhouse is a residential building situated on agricultural land.

A Farmhouse in Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. Source: garystockbridge617.getarchive.net

It serves as the main dwelling for those who work on the farm. Farmhouses are usually larger structures designed for practicality and durability, often featuring expansive kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and sometimes outbuildings like barns and sheds. They combine living spaces with functional areas to support farming activities, blending rural charm with functionality.

Types of Internal Setup

1. Split-Level Homes

Split-level homes feature staggered floor levels, providing distinct living areas for different purposes. Typically, they have a lower level for recreational activities, a main level for living and dining, and an upper level for bedrooms.

This design offers a unique aesthetic and efficient use of space. Split-level homes are ideal for families looking for defined spaces for different activities, but they may require more effort to navigate the multiple levels.

2. Basements

Basement dwellings are living spaces located below the main floor of a house.

Basement Setup. Source: Realtor.ca

These units can be either fully or partially below ground level. The units partially below the main unit can often have their own separate entrance and are often called Walkout Basements.

Walkout Basement example. Source: Realtor.ca

Basement dwellings are often rented out by homeowners to generate additional income. They typically offer a cost-effective living solution and can be quite spacious. However, they may have limited natural light and ventilation compared to above-ground homes. They are a practical choice for students, young professionals, or those seeking an affordable housing option.

Freehold, Condo, and Rental: Understanding the Differences

Freehold

A freehold property is fully owned by the homeowner, including both the building and the land it sits on. Owners are responsible for all maintenance and repairs, providing complete control over the property. Freehold homes offer more privacy and the freedom to make significant modifications. They are ideal for those seeking long-term stability and investment.

Condominiums Ownership

In a condominium (Condos) arrangement, individuals own their specific unit but share ownership of common areas with other residents.
Condo owners pay monthly maintenance fees for the upkeep of shared facilities and may have to adhere to certain rules set by the condo association.

This is similar to the Resident Welfare Association in India, but a lot more controlled and regualted by Provincial Laws.
For example, in Ontario, the Condominium Act is applied to the Condos and the Condominium Authority is responsible for governing the different condominiums.

Condos are a good option for those who want ownership without the extensive responsibilities of maintaining a house.

NOTE: All the house types mentioned above so far can either be Freehold or Condominiums. The apartments are usually condominiums.

Rental Properties

Rental properties are owned by landlords or rental companies and leased to tenants. Tenants pay rent to live in the property and typically have fewer responsibilities regarding maintenance and repairs, which are handled by the property owner. Renting is ideal for those who need flexibility, are saving for a future purchase, or prefer not to deal with the long-term commitment and responsibilities of homeownership.

An example of a Rental Property company in Ontario is Kaneff or Oxford Properties.

In summary, Canada’s housing market offers a wide array of options to suit various lifestyles and needs. Whether you’re looking for the independence of a freehold home, the convenience of a condo, or the flexibility of renting, there’s a perfect home waiting for you.