Buying a home in Canada is a big step, and choosing the right type of house is just as important as choosing the location or price. Canada has many different types of homes, and each one has its own style, benefits, and things to consider.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, moving with your family, or just curious about your options, this guide will help you understand the most common types of houses in Canada. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Detached House
A detached house is a single home that doesn’t share any walls with another house. It stands on its own.
What to Know:
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More space inside and outside
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You get your own front and backyard
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Total privacy
Good for: Families or anyone who wants space and privacy.
Things to consider: Usually more expensive and more work to maintain.
2. Semi-Detached House
This type of house is connected to one other house by a single wall. It’s like two houses joined together.
What to Know:
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You share one wall with a neighbour
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Private entrance and small yard
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Costs less than a detached house
Good for: Small families or couples looking for a bit more space at a lower cost.
Things to consider: You might hear noise from next door, and space is a bit smaller.
3. Townhouse (or Row House)
Townhouses are part of a row of homes that are all attached to each other. Each one has its own door and often two or three floors.
What to Know:
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Shared walls on both sides
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Often in planned communities
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May have a small yard or patio
Good for: First-time buyers or people who want a home in the city.
Things to consider: Less privacy, and not as much outdoor space.
4. Condominium (Condo)
A condo is a unit inside a larger building or complex. You own your unit, but share spaces like the lobby, gym, or pool with other people.
What to Know:
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Less expensive than houses
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You don’t have to mow the lawn or shovel snow
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You pay a monthly condo fee for maintenance
Good for: Singles, couples, or anyone who wants low-maintenance living.
Things to consider: Less privacy and more rules to follow.
5. Duplex or Triplex
These are homes divided into two (duplex) or three (triplex) separate units. You can live in one unit and rent out the others.
What to Know:
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You can earn rental income
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Each unit has its own entrance
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Great for multi-generational families
Good for: Investors or families who want to live together but still have separate spaces.
Things to consider: You’ll be a landlord, which comes with responsibilities.
6. Cottage or Cabin
Cottages are small houses usually found in the countryside, near lakes, forests, or mountains. They’re often used as vacation homes.
What to Know:
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Peaceful and close to nature
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Great for weekend getaways
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Some can be lived in all year
Good for: Nature lovers or people looking for a second home.
Things to consider: Can be harder to reach in winter, and some need a lot of upkeep.
7. Mobile or Manufactured Home
These homes are built in a factory and moved to a location, usually in a mobile home park or rural area.
What to Know:
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Lower cost than regular houses
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Can be placed on rented land
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Simple and quick to set up
Good for: People on a tight budget or those who want a simple lifestyle.
Things to consider: May not increase in value over time, and you may have to pay rent for the land.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying a home. The best type of house for you depends on your budget, lifestyle, and future plans. A condo in the city might be perfect for a young couple, while a detached home in the suburbs could be great for a growing family. A duplex might suit someone who wants to earn rental income while living on the property.
Take time to explore your options, visit different types of homes, and talk to a real estate agent if you need help. With the right information and a little patience, you’ll find a home that fits your life just right.

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