House Types in Canada; There’s a House Type to Suit Everybody’s Needs

Overview of housing market in Canada

Since 1888, when the first real estate board was established in the growing community of Vancouver, the housing market has changed almost completely. As Canadian real estate statistics have indicated, in today’s market, the housing rate in Canada is 66.5%.

Also, the federal government of Canada has allocated 70 billion dollars to make the housing market more affordable. The industry generated a total revenue of $58.5 billion in 2020, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.8% between 2016 and 2020. Also, the rental rate increased by 6% in 2019, as the demand for rent increased with the simultaneous growth of youth employment and more immigrants entering Canada.

What house types in Canada are more common?

The prevalence of each type of house varies from province to province. However, according to statistics, apartment houses and independent houses are the most common. 

The impact of immigration on housing market

Certainly, the arrival of immigrants to any country affects the demand for houses. According to a report, it is predicted that Canada should increase the construction of houses by 50% to meet the needs of this number of immigrants. 

History of Housing in Canada

For most of its history, Canadian cities have been driven by waves of immigrants seeking homes in expanding suburbs. Today, urban growth is moving not so much outward as upward, as multifamily housing units, particularly condos and apartments, have transformed the skylines of Canadian cities.

The rise of condos and apartments in Canada’s largest urban centers reflects not only lifestyle choices, but also important demographic, economic and social changes—increased immigration, shrinking household sizes, changing household characteristics, aging populations, high prices for singles. 

Since 2012, apartments (including condominium apartments) have had the highest construction intentions in Canada. Over the past 40 years, apartments and single-family homes have made up the vast majority (85% on average). 

Canadian government policies that have shaped the housing market

It all started in 1888, when the first real estate board was launched in the growing community of Vancouver. The federal government pledged $70 billion in an effort to make the housing market more affordable. The government’s efforts to build affordable homes and reduce the homelessness gap led them to a 10-year plan for the National Housing Strategy. This includes allocating about 70 billion dollars for this project.

Detached

As explained earlier, detached type offers great options such as privacy. In this section, we will be discussing all there is to know about detached house type.

What Does ‘Detached’ Housing Mean In Real Estate?

Detached house is a term that refers to one of house types in Canada, that is not connected to any other structure and actually does not have any external walls in common with other houses and structures. 

This definition does not include duplexes, triplexes, or tower blocks that house hundreds of households. Such houses are known as ideal properties for families due to having a lot of space and distance from other neighbors. 

Description of the characteristics and features of detached house type

The distinctive feature of detached houses is that they have more privacy than other house types in Canada. These houses have an open space (yard) in front and back of the house and usually have their own garage. Visible features separate this type of house from other houses, which include the following:

• There is a complete separate kitchen with enough facilities in these houses
• The owner of the detached house is also the independent owner of the land on which the house is located, which can range from a few meters to several hectares.
• Separated houses, unlike other city houses, have their own separate and special access from the streets and mostly have side paths from the main streets to their houses.
• Also, one of the main disadvantages of detached houses is the high cost of buying them and the high cost of their maintenance.

Differences between attached and detached houses

One of the main differences between detached houses and attached houses is in their structure. As mentioned before, detached houses do not have any common wall with any structure around them and no minimum boundary is defined for their distance from other structures, even if this distance to the side structure is 6 inches, it is still a detached house. Unlike detached houses, attached houses share at least one wall with their neighbors. 

Another difference between detached houses and independent houses is their size and dimensions. Detached houses mostly have a larger space than attached houses and have a yard in front or behind the house, as a result, they have enough space to maintain privacy.

Which Is Right For You: Attached Or Detached Homes?

Choosing housing between detached houses and attached houses requires checking the conditions. It cannot be said that there is only one type of house that is suitable for every person and family with every condition, but this issue requires careful consideration of life and family conditions. 

If you are a family that would like to have a large space for living, separate and special garage, yard and green space, detached houses are the right choice for you. Of course, you should keep in mind the high cost of buying them and the possible costs of repairs for the large size of these houses.  Also, you have more privacy and more freedom in detached houses, so if this is important to you, you can count on buying detached houses as a suitable option.

On the other hand, attached houses can be a suitable option for young people and those who live individually, because firstly, you pay a reasonable and lower price for their purchase, and also because of the proximity and sharing with neighbors, you are in more social environments. 

Even because you are close to your neighbors, you are less exposed to dangers such as theft from your home. Because attached houses are mostly built in the city itself and not in the suburbs, have much easier access than detached houses.

Finally, you should make the right choice by considering all the features available for both types of these houses.

Statistics on the popularity and prevalence of detached homes in Canada

Detached houses are very popular among other house types in Canada, for several reasons. First, when you buy a detached house, you are actually buying the house with the land on it, which is suitable for people who are looking for an investment and also want outdoor space. 

On the other hand, these houses respect your privacy more because you don’t have neighbors. In the future, if you decide to enlarge your house, there are no obstacles, unlike some house types in Canada. According to the statistics obtained between 2016 and 2021, independent and detached houses account for about 36.5% of all houses. They said that this figure is still increasing

Pros and cons of owning a detached home

All house types in Canada have pros and cons, and here we will discuss these advantages and disadvantages of detached houses:

Advantages

1. Free space, more privacy, peace
   If having privacy, away from city noise and quiet and sufficient space is important to you, these are the characteristics of detached houses. Your children and family can live in an open environment in addition to the house and enjoy this large and open space.
2. Getting rid of property sharing problems
   Having a detached house, you no longer need to suffer mental conflicts with people who are in your neighborhood or share your property.
3. The high value of detached houses
   Although the final purchase price of detached houses is higher than other types of houses, buying these houses in suitable neighborhoods with high local access, can make you an investment.
4. Having the possibility of expansion and renovation

People who live in shared houses often face problems with their partners regarding repairs or making changes in their houses. The neighbor may not agree to repair or change the house. Having a detached house allows you to repair and renovate or change the number of rooms or the structure of your house whenever you want.

Disadvantages

1. Expensive cost
   Buying and owning a detached house may prevent you from achieving the goals you could achieve by buying an apartment due to the high cost you incur.
2. You are entirely responsible for the maintenance of the exterior of the house, and you must bear all the costs related to it, a condition that does not exist for condos, for example, and such costs are not the responsibility of the buyer.
3. Risk of life disasters and local access
   This is because most of the detached houses are built in the suburbs and there are few houses around them, so they are more likely to be stolen and can be unsafe while providing privacy. For this reason, being in the suburbs, they are usually far from the comfort that is more available in the city center.
4. Tax for housing
   The tax calculation of all house types in Canada is based on the size and value of the house, which is why having separate houses can cost you more tax.

Factors influencing the demand for detached homes

The demand for detached houses is always increasing, and these demands are associated with various reasons. Since November 2019 and at the same time as the covid-19 pandemic began, people preferred to live away from the urban environment that was more likely to catch the disease.

Also, the change in people’s work patterns and lifestyles has made them want to live in a cheaper and larger space away from the city, because with the increase in work done at home and remotely, people want to live in bigger houses with open space and privacy. 

Semi-detached

The next type we will be covering is semi-detached. Continue on to learn all about this type of house in Canada

What is semi-detached house in Canada

Semi-detached houses include two houses that are connected to each other by a wall, and this wall is shared between both of them. This usually happens in such a way that the design of the two houses is a mirror. 

The common wall of semi-detached houses generally includes a space in the house that requires less privacy than other parts of the house, such as a garage or a service area.

Are semi detached houses cheaper than detached?

One of the advantages of buying a semi-detached house is that their cost is lower than detached houses, so you can have a lot of space by paying less money. Also, the existence of a common wall between two houses has reduced many costs of cooling and heating the house, and you can even share the costs of house repairs with your neighbor and save your money. 

Is semi-detached a good investment?

Yes it is. You can pay the mortgage bills from the rent you receive from the tenant. Also, the advance payment of these houses is much lower than detached houses and if you buy your property in a good location, you may see an increase in capital over a certain period of time.

Which is better detached or semi-detached?

Semi-detached houses are a better option than detached houses, since you pay a lower price. Also, because you have neighbors and you share most of the costs of repair, maintenance, heating and cooling of the house with each other, it can be a better option than detached houses, where all the costs are on your own.

Instead, in a detached house, you have privacy. Moreover, you have no neighbors and more independent space compared to semi-detached houses.

Is semi-detached better than a townhouse?

There are several things to consider when choosing between a semi-detached house and a townhouse. While semi-detached houses share only one common wall with the neighboring house, townhouses are often located between rows of other houses and have more common walls. Of course, these houses are more affordable than semi-detached houses and offer you more amenities. Also, the cost of repairs and maintenance is the responsibility of all the owners of the house, and in this sense, you pay less. 

Can I separate my semi-detached house?

The short answer to this question is “yes”, but you should consider all aspects before starting this work. Keep in mind that by separating your semi-independent house into separate houses, you will have to pay more costs than before, such as cooling and heating costs, repair and housing costs. 

Also, doing this requires many building permits, many engineers and consultants. Because of the gas line, sewage, drinking water service, etc… But in the end, it is possible to separate or demolish semi-independent houses under the condition of being careful and spending money.

Can I make 2 semi-detached houses into 1?

It is possible to convert two semi-independent houses into one house, but like many other structural changes, it requires care. First, you should keep in mind that only houses that had one owner at first and then separated can have one owner again. Converting two semi-independent houses into one house does not require a general permit because it is considered an internal development.

Pros and cons of owning a semi-detached home

The advantages and disadvantages of having semi-detached houses are given below

Advantages:

1. semi-detached houses are always a cost-effective choice compared to buying some other house types in Canada.
2. By having a semi-detached house, you can be sure that due to the equal share of both owners of the house, all the costs of its maintenance and repairs will be divided between you, and it can cause savings in this field.
3. While semi-detached houses are usually smaller than detached houses, they provide more space to the owner compared to city houses or apartments.

Disadvantages:

1. Due to the existence of a common wall between you and the neighbor, even if there is insulation in the wall, the neighbor’s noise may be transmitted.
2. Due to having a neighbor, you will have less privacy than a detached house.
3. In semi-detached houses, you have less space due to sharing it with your neighbor.
4. Even though the repair costs will be divided between you and your neighbors, you have to reach an agreement with them.

Townhouses

Next, we have townhouses on the list of Canadian house types.

Description of the characteristics and features of this type of house

Townhouses are houses that usually have one or two walls in common with their neighboring properties, but each has its own entrance with a backyard and a small front lawn. 

So, their most important feature is that they are not independent and in other words, they are connected to another house, that’s why people refer to them as part of urban communities. 

These houses, which often exist in cities and their centers, are mostly smaller than detached houses. Although the architecture of each town house is different, they all have the same features. For example:

• Similar layout to a single-family home
• Smaller outdoor spaces
• Shared walls
• Two or three rooms
• Private driveways or garages
• Attached dwelling
• Shared amenities

Statistics on the popularity and prevalence of townhouses in Canada

Because of the high density in urban centers, the need to build urban houses is increased. These homes tend to become the starting point for most markets. Between 2020 and 2021, the construction of townhouses have increased by 35%, and of course, according to the report of Realtor.ca, the average house price has increased by 25% from 2019 to 2021, which increases the demand for townhouses that are suitable and cheaper alternatives.

Pros and cons of owning a townhouse

Like the previous types, townhouses have their advantages and disadvantages as well.

Advantages

1. The affordability: a suitable option compared to luxury and independent houses.
2. Amenities: such as a swimming pool, club and outdoor space for all owners.
3. Freedom: to make interior and exterior decisions.
4. Pay less for its maintenance and repairs: due to their smaller size compared to an independent single-family house

Disadvantages

1. HOA fees for this type of house can range from $100 to $700, with an average of $200.
2. Since townhouses are adjacent to many units, you have less personal space.
3. limited space when the family grows and needs a bigger house

Factors influencing the demand for townhouses

Because townhouses have a smaller area than independent houses, they are less expensive to buy. Also, the construction site of townhouses is also inside the cities, so it is a suitable option for people who want to be near their workplace.

What is the difference between a condo and a townhouse in Canada?

There are differences between condos and townhouses, which are often related to the issue of ownership and their financial responsibilities, which we will address:

1. Cost

1. • low prices for condos
   • high cost of rent and mortgage for townhouses
   • difficulty to get a loan for a condo
2. Ownership
   • you have to share the facilities and recreational space with other owners if you own a condo, in contrast to owning a townhouse.
3. Maintenance
   • you are responsible for all house maintenance if you live in a condo, but the building manager is responsible for spending a small amount of these things. Also the cost of repairing the entire building will be divided between you and other owners.
4. Space

• • Townhouses usually have bigger floor plans compared to condos. Although condos may have parking spaces or gyms, townhouses have other advantages, such as garages, yards, office space, or additional parking. 

Should I buy/rent a townhouse in Canada?

Buying or renting townhouses depends on the living conditions of you and your family. If you need enough space and also live in the city, and on the other hand, you don’t want to pay a high price for living in a house, townhouses can be a good option for you

Can you hear neighbors in townhouses?

Due to the existence of a common wall in townhouses, there is always the possibility of hearing the voices of your neighbors from the next unit or the upper floor. 

How do I block sound in townhouses?

you can:

1. Fill gaps in your building or walls
2. Use sound insulation for doors and windows
3. Insulate the roof during repairs
4. You can also insulate the walls to prevent cold and heat from entering while preventing sound transmission.

Condos

Condos are the next popular option that we will explore further.

Description of the characteristics and features of this type of house

Condominiums, or “condos” for short, are like apartment buildings, but have a different ownership structure. Residents can own or rent units while a condo corporation owns and maintains the building’s common elements (such as hallways and lobbies) and the exterior.

Condominiums often offer common amenities such as fitness centers, party rooms, and even swimming pools. More luxurious condos may offer concierge services. If you are a tenant, these amenities are included in your monthly rent. 

The owners will pay a monthly condo fee to maintain the common facilities and cover the repairs and maintenance of the building. Condos are available in a variety of sizes from small master units to two and three bedroom apartments.

Condos appeal to people who want an affordable lifestyle, a safe and stable living environment, along with the opportunity to socialize with their neighbors.

Most condo owners don’t have to worry about repairs or maintenance. Instead, these costs are covered by monthly payments to the condo association. The most attractive feature of the condo is its price tag. Condominiums have always been cheaper than single-family homes, and this trend continues to this day. Condos are also often cheaper in terms of taxes.

Statistics on the popularity and prevalence of condos in Canada

The census shows that there are more people living in condos than people living in single-family homes. 

Pros and cons of owning a townhouse

Like every other type of housing, owning a condo comes with its advantages and disadvantages such as:

Advantages of living in a condo

• Security is important:

Most people who choose to live in an apartment agree that security is one of the key factors they consider. All entry and exit points are heavily guarded to ensure that only authorized people are allowed into the condos.

• Access to modern facilities:

Condo living gives you unique access to modern amenities such as a state-of-the-art gym, rooftop deck, dog washing areas, swimming pool, steam and sauna rooms, hot tubs, entertainment rooms, meeting rooms, concierge, and library. 

• A sense of belonging to a community:

Residents live and interact with each other as a community. Sharing common facilities also helps create a stronger bond and sense of belonging. 

• Affordable lifestyle:

Condos are very affordable compared to single family homes. If you are a first time home buyer or looking for the best deal when downsizing, getting a condo is the best decision you can make.

Disadvantages of living in a condo

there are some disadvantages of living in a condo such as:

• You cannot own the land on which the condo is built
• Limited independence
• Mandatory homeowners association fees
• Less privacy
• Your neighbors are too close

Factors influencing the demand for condos

There are some factors which influence the demand for condos:

• Condo ownership is cheaper
• It is a viable alternative to traditional single-family homes
• You won’t need to leave the comfort of your home to enjoy
• Investment opportunities

What is the difference between a flat and a condo?

There is no difference in their physical structure. Apartments and condos are different in the type of ownership. An apartment is a space that you can rent, but you don’t actually own it. While condos are residential spaces that you can buy, own and sell whenever you want.

Another important distinction between condos and apartments is property management, maintenance and repair costs. In a rental, apartment owners – often referred to as landlords – are usually responsible for internal and external maintenance and repairs. In contrast, condominium ownership includes responsibility for any repairs or maintenance in your unit.

Both types of property usually have several floors and units and common facilities and common areas. Owners of condo units in some areas can also rent their individual units.

What’s the difference between a condo and an apartment?

Physically, apartments, condos, and flats are more alike among all house types in Canada. The term “apartment” is more commonly used in American English, “flat” in British English, and “condominium” in Canadian English. All of them represent a set of rooms located on a particular floor and intended to be used as residences for individuals and families.

Duplexes

Next, we will be reviewing duplexes in detail.

Description of the characteristics and features of this type of house

Duplex houses are one of the most popular houses in Canada. These type of houses are a single building that has two separate units and has a common wall. In the classification of duplex houses, there are two different types. One of them is the duplex houses where the units are next to each other and the other type is the duplex houses that are on top of each other. 

Compared to independent houses, duplex houses are a more affordable option and may be the right option for you.

What is a half duplex in Canada?

Half duplex houses are a type of house with two separate and independent houses that are either built next to each other and have a common wall or built on top of each other and have a common roof. In these house types in Canada, although there are two units in one house, both units do not belong to the same person and the owner of each unit is separate. Semi-duplex homes also have their own private outdoor space to accommodate people’s need for outdoor activities. Semi-duplex houses also have a private back or front yard and private parking.

Statistics on the popularity and prevalence of condos in Canada

Duplex houses are among the most popular house types in Canada for several reasons. One of those reasons is that these homes require minimal maintenance as they have a simple interior that is made up of one independent unit. Also, with the passage of time, the value of duplex houses has increased faster and many people convert their duplex houses into rental properties and earn money.

Pros and cons of owning a townhouse

Having a duplex house includes advantages and disadvantages that we will discuss

Advantages:

1. Less expensive than renting a house
2. More space than an apartment
3. Front or back yard
4. More privacy

Disadvantages:

1. Unavailability
2. Maintenance is your responsibility
3. Living next to the owner of the house
4. Having noise

Factors influencing the demand for duplexes

Compared to the past, in recent years, people’s demand for duplex houses in Canada has increased. After the corona epidemic, there has been a significant increase in the demand for houses with more and better environments without compromising the safety of the people in the house, and duplex houses are considered as a suitable lifestyle in a safe environment. 

Today, duplex houses have taken on a more modern form, and in their design and construction, the presence of a swimming pool, recreational space, garden and lawn has made these houses affordable, but these tempting facilities have increased the demand for them among other house types in Canada. 

Is it risky to buy a duplex?

Buying a duplex house may have some disadvantages that involve a bit of risk in front of its many advantages. In most cases, many people who offer mortgages consider duplex loans more risky than single-family houses, so they prefer to give this type of loan to independent houses. Also, on the other hand, the tax on duplex houses can be higher than some other house types in Canada. 

Are Duplexes A Good Investment?

in addition to popularity and demand for increase, have caused the increase in the amount of investment in them. It can be said that buying duplexes can have a high value and is a very good option to start investing. You can buy a duplex and live in one unit and rent out the other unit so that you can easily pay the mortgage repayments. 

Also, investing in this type of house is recommended for those who are new to investing, because smaller multi-family properties are much more affordable than large single-family properties and are less risky for investment.On the other hand, duplex houses are more suitable for renters than houses like condos, so the increase in demand for rent affects the increase in demand for their construction and sale and makes investing in duplex houses more successful.

Do duplexes have to share a wall?

Yes. Due to the fact that duplex houses are two independent units, there must be a common wall between both units.

Are duplexes profitable?

In the discussion of the profitability of duplex houses, you can consider the discussion of investment, because you pay less than other houses, but there is a more successful future for this type of house, you can be very satisfied with your investment and without worry.

What is the average size of a duplex?

It can be said that the average size of these houses varies between 800 and 1500 square feet.

Why are duplexes hard to find?

Although duplex houses are popular and affordable houses, finding and buying a duplex house may be a bit difficult. Since the number of multi-family houses in Canada is less than single-family houses, then this issue affects the less visibility of duplex houses in the real estate sector. On the other hand, these houses are less located in the suburbs, and many people may give up buying a duplex house for this reason.

Do duplexes depreciate?

Depreciation on all types of homes is actually a non-cash tax deduction that buyers can claim over the life of their property structure and the equipment and machinery assets in the property. Over time, every year your assets, including machinery and equipment and the structure of your home, depreciate. By claiming tax depreciation, owners can reduce their income tax. 

Split-level 

Why are split levels cheap?

Split level homes look like older homes and after the building boom in the 1970s, many of them that were built in the past years are still around. And also because they look old and there is little demand for them, so they don’t have a high construction rate and this makes them have a lower market and a lower price than other house types in Canada.

Is it hard to sell a split-level home?

Because these houses are very old and depreciated, and it can cause them to have a very high cost for repairs, so few people are willing to accept these consequences. 

Why are split level houses so popular?

Compared to other house types in Canada, split level houses provide enough space between the upper and lower floors, and it can be a suitable option for those who want to create a sports hall or an office on the lower floor. 

They are also suitable for families because noise does not transfer between rooms. These houses provide enough space for the owner of each room with a suitable design for the rooms, and the size of the green space outside the house And one of the important options to increase their popularity is their very low price due to their old age, which can be a very good option for people who want to own a house and cannot pay a high price.

What are the types of split-level homes?

Types of split level houses are divided into four categories.

1. Standard split
   This type includes an entrance door on the main level of the house. The living room, kitchen, dining room and family rooms are located on the lower floor and the bedroom and bathroom are located on the upper floor and the garage is located in the basement.
2. Side split
   In this type, there is a garage with a living room on the lowest level, and the kitchen is one floor higher on the opposite side.
3. Back split
   In this type of house, like a farm, all levels of the house are visible from the back or side of the house
4. Stacked split
   In this division, the house can have four floors, each floor will reach a common staircase at a different level

Bungalows 

Description of the characteristics and features of this type of house

The two-bedroom, one-bathroom bungalow is a popular housing style from the 1920s to the 1960s, not only in Toronto (which focuses on this house model) but across Canada. 

Characteristics of bungalows in Canada

Here are the most common interior features of bungalows:

• The arrangement of the living room in the center
• Open floor plan with limited storage
• Earthy neutral colors
• Built-in cabinets
• Stylish templates and cornice decorations

Here’s a look at common exterior features of bungalow-style homes:

• Detailed woodwork on window and door frames
• Front porch with sloping roof
• Low pitched or pitched roofs
• Low-profile exterior design
• Sloped roofs facing the street
• Building materials that contribute to the climate of the region
• Lots of windows
• The front steps are up
• Proportioned front appearance

Pros and cons of renting an bungalows 

Advantages 

• Privacy
• Great for elders 
• Children-friendly 
• High resale value 

Disadvantages

• Lack of bungalows
• They are expensive
• Being together too much
• They have old design
• Factors influencing the demand for bungalows 

Which is a better villa or bungalow?

Bungalows symbolize a more traditional lifestyle, while a villa caters to modern home buyers. Bungalows are also often passed down through generations. In contrast, villas are usually built on predetermined plots. As a result, they can only be regenerated internally, but not externally.

What size is a bungalow?

Between 1,000 and 2,000 square feet, bungalows are a great option for young families looking for a starter home, retirees hoping to downsize to a stair-free home, or single homeowners who want the single family lifestyle without managing a large property.

Bungalow-style homes may have covered porches, attached garages, angled garages, walkout or daylight basements, and open concept floor plans. Sometimes the front entrances are removed, allowing for larger windows in the basement.

Is it cheaper to live in a bungalow?

On a per unit area basis (ie per square meter or per square foot), bungalows are more expensive to build than two-story houses because a smaller living area requires the same foundation and roof.

Homes are usually better value

As we’ve noted before, bungalows can be highly rated due to a lack of supply compared to demand.

This means you could end up paying more per square foot than you would when buying a home.

With some bungalows, you can pay the same price for a house in terms of the land it sits on, yet you’ll get a lot less square footage for your money.

How long does a bungalow last?

The average lifespan of a new home is 70 to 100 years. Factors such as poor housing materials and exposure to harmful weather conditions can shorten a home’s lifespan. Regular maintenance can improve the longevity of your home.

How many rooms are in a bungalow?

The interior of a bungalow is often combined – to make the most of the compact living space – and usually has two or three bedrooms.

Can a bungalow have stairs?

Yes, bungalows can have stairs. It seems impossible to some people, but many people are building bungalows with stairs. 

Can I turn my bungalow into a house?

You can go upstairs to a dorm or add an extra floor to turn the house into a bungalow. If you have a larger design, you may be able to move it to the back. Bungalows, like other house types in Canada, have permitted development rights which have been changed to encourage development.

Are bungalows always detached?

A bungalow is a house built on only one floor, the foundations of the building are different from the usual two or three-storey properties and will always be either fully detached or semi-detached.

Can you build a second floor in a bungalow?

A second floor can be added to a bungalow, although it may no longer be classified as a bungalow once completed. Many bungalows have upper rooms that are on the roof, but not a full upper floor.  

Is it hard to sell bungalows?

Real bungalows are very popular and hold or increase in value. That’s because older homeowners are looking to downsize and first-time home buyers love them. 

Apartment Buildings

Description of the characteristics and features of this type of house

An apartment building is a building that has five or more residential units, at least one residential unit is completely or partially above the other unit, and each residential unit has a separate entrance directly from the outside or through a common internal area.

Factors influencing the demand for apartments

• Population growth
• housing affordability 

These factors, along with insufficient and limited rental supply, will exacerbate housing challenges. Apartments are an important part of the housing solution for many Canadians. Whether they enter the rental market out of preference or necessity. For example, immigrants who enter the country without the capital to own a home remain in the rental market for an average of 10 years before home ownership becomes a viable option.

pros and cons of buying a home versus building one.

1. Cost
   In general, building a house is cheaper than buying! This is simply because when you build a house, you don’t pay for the seller’s interest.
2. Time
   A house building project takes at least 8 months and an average of a year. But when buying real estate, you may be able to move in immediately after closing.
3. Customization
   Customization is another big advantage of building your own home over buying. Finding a home that meets all your needs and desires is not easy. Instead, you can choose all the finishes and other features of your home when you build it. 
4. Convenience
   The house hunting process involves several steps such as viewing homes, making offers, home inspections and closing. While building a house involves more fun yet challenging stages. You need to find land (if you don’t have one), which may not be in a neighborhood you are familiar with.