A condominium, or condo, is a type of real estate ownership where an individual owns a specific unit within a larger complex of units. Condos can be apartments, townhouses, or even detached homes, and they are typically located in multi-unit buildings or developments.
When someone purchases a condo, they own the unit they are buying and have the right to use the common areas and amenities within the complex. However, the land and the building structure itself are owned by the condo corporation, which is made up of all the individual owners. Each owner is required to pay monthly condo fees, which cover the costs of maintaining and managing the common areas, such as the grounds, hallways, elevators, and other shared facilities.
Condo owners have a say in how the condo corporation is managed and operate, as they can participate in the decision-making process through voting and serving on the board of directors. This allows owners to have a say in the way their community is managed, from maintenance and repair issues to the overall direction of the condo complex.
1. Duplex-Style Condos:
These are a popular option for buyers in Calgary who want the space and privacy of a townhouse but don't want to deal with the maintenance of a single-family home. These units consist of just two units instead of several, and may be side-by-side or stacked on top of each other. They offer a great combination of convenience, affordability, and low maintenance that make them an attractive option for many buyers.
Duplex-style condos are a popular choice for families who need more space than an apartment-style condo can provide. These units often feature multiple levels, offering ample living space for families of all sizes. They also often feature private entrances and outdoor spaces, such as balconies or patios, that provide a great opportunity for outdoor living and entertaining.
One of the biggest benefits of duplex-style condos is the low maintenance they require. Since the units are attached, many maintenance tasks, such as landscaping and exterior repairs, are shared between the two units.
2. Apartment-Style Condos :
It offer a wide range of options, from small studios to large penthouses, and are often located in desirable neighbourhoods with easy access to public transportation, shopping, and dining. One of the biggest advantages of apartment-style condos is their affordability. Compared to single-family homes or townhouses, apartment-style condos are often more affordable, making them a great option for first-time buyers or those on a tighter budget. They also typically require less maintenance than single-family homes or townhouses, as many maintenance tasks, such as landscaping and exterior repairs, are handled by the building management.
Apartment-style condos can be found throughout Calgary, in both established and up-and-coming neighbourhoods. They are often located near major transportation routes, making them an ideal option for those who need easy access to work or school.
Low-rise apartment condos are typically 4-6 stories tall and offer a more intimate living experience. They are often located in quieter neighbourhoods and offer a more community-oriented feel. Low-rise condos may have fewer units and residents, which can create a tighter-knit community and offer more privacy than high-rise buildings.
High-rise apartment condos are typically 7 stories or more and offer a more urban living experience. They are often located in bustling city centres or high-density neighbourhoods, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and amenities nearby.
Single-level apartment condos are typically designed with one level of living space, and can be found in low-rise or high-rise buildings. These units offer an open-concept layout, with all rooms accessible from a single level. They are a popular option for those who value easy accessibility and a simple layout, with no stairs to climb. Single-level condos are also popular with seniors, families with young children, and people with mobility issues.
Multi-level apartment condos, on the other hand, offer two or more levels of living space within a single unit. These units can be found in low-rise or high-rise buildings, and often include features such as a loft or mezzanine level. Multi-level condos offer more space and separation between living areas, providing more privacy and the feeling of a larger home. These types of condos are popular with young professionals, couples, and those who enjoy the feeling of a multi-level living space.
3. Townhouse Condos :
These are a popular option for buyers in Calgary who want the space and privacy of a traditional townhouse but with the benefits of condo living. These units are typically located in multi-unit buildings, often in a row or cluster, and share some features with traditional single-family townhomes, such as a private entrance and outdoor space. However, they also come with some added benefits, such as lower maintenance requirements and access to shared amenities.
One of the biggest advantages of townhouse condos is the additional space they offer. Compared to apartment-style condos, townhouse condos generally offer more square footage, with multiple levels and sometimes even a basement. This can be especially appealing for families or those who need a dedicated workspace or home gym. They also often come with private outdoor spaces, such as a balcony or patio, which can provide a great opportunity for outdoor living and entertaining.
4. Rowhouse Condos :
It also known as row homes or row houses, are a unique type of condo in Calgary that combines the benefits of townhouse-style living with the added charm and character of historic row houses. These units are typically attached to their neighbors in a row, sharing one or more walls, but each unit has its own separate entrance and outdoor space.
Rowhouse condos are often found in older, established neighbourhoods in Calgary, particularly in areas with a rich history of row houses. They offer a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience, making them an attractive option for those who appreciate historic architecture but want the benefits of a low-maintenance lifestyle.
One of the biggest advantages of rowhouse condos is their unique design. Unlike traditional townhouses or apartment-style condos, rowhouse condos offer a more distinct and individual feel, with unique architectural features and character. They also typically offer more space than apartment-style condos, with multiple levels and sometimes even a basement.
5. Villa Condos :
It also known as villa-style homes, are a unique type of condo in Calgary that offers a low-maintenance lifestyle with the added benefits of a detached single-family home. These units are typically located in smaller, more intimate developments and offer a range of amenities, including private outdoor spaces and often a garage or carport.
Villa condos are designed to provide residents with the best of both worlds: the convenience of condo living combined with the privacy and space of a single-family home. They are typically smaller than traditional single-family homes, with less square footage, but they still offer ample living space and often include multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
One of the biggest advantages of villa condos is the low-maintenance lifestyle they offer. Many maintenance tasks, such as landscaping and exterior repairs, are handled by the condo board, allowing residents to enjoy their homes without the stress of upkeep. This makes villa condos a great option for those who want to enjoy their homes without the hassle of maintenance.
6. Bareland Condos :
It also known as detached condos, are a unique type of condo in Calgary that offers the benefits of condo living with the added privacy and space of a detached single-family home. These units are typically located in small developments and offer a range of amenities, including private outdoor spaces and often a garage or carport.
Bareland condos are designed to provide residents with the best of both worlds: the convenience of condo living combined with the privacy and space of a single-family home. They are typically larger than traditional villa-style condos and offer more living space, including multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
One of the biggest advantages of bareland condos is the low-maintenance lifestyle they offer. Many maintenance tasks, such as landscaping and exterior repairs, are handled by the condo board, allowing residents to enjoy their homes without the stress of upkeep. This makes bareland condos a great option for those who want to enjoy their homes without the hassle of maintenance.