Condo vs House in the GTA — Should Young Buyers Choose a Condo or a House?

Choosing between a condo and a house is one of the most important decisions facing young buyers in the GTA. While both offer distinct benefits, they also come with different trade-offs in terms of cost, lifestyle, maintenance, and long-term value.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve outlined the key factors — and why more buyers are starting their journey at The Unionville.

1. Budget & Affordability

Condos

• Lower purchase prices and down payments compared to detached homes

• Monthly maintenance fees cover building insurance, landscaping, snow removal, and exterior upkeep

Houses

• Higher purchase prices and typically require a larger down payment

• Homeowners are fully responsible for exterior maintenance (roofing, siding, lawn care, etc.)

If you’re a first-time buyer working with a limited budget, a condo is often the more accessible path to homeownership.

2. Maintenance & Lifestyle

Condos

• Hassle-free living, no yard work, no roof repairs, no snow to shovel

• Lock-and-leave convenience for frequent travel or hybrid work lifestyles

• On-site amenities add value and convenience

At The Unionville, residents enjoy:

• A Summit Gym with coach-led fitness sessions

• Tee Time virtual golf simulator room

• Music studio

• The Aspire coworking lounge with tea and snack bar

• A STEAM Kids Club, games room, and designer lounge, all within the building

Houses

• More indoor and outdoor space

• More responsibility: maintenance, repairs, and yard care are time- and cost-intensive

3. Security & Peace of Mind

Condos

Modern condominiums offer a level of security and controlled access that’s difficult to replicate in a detached home.

At The Unionville, you’ll find:

• 24-hour concierge and security patrol

• Live security cameras monitoring all common areas, elevators, lobbies, and outdoor perimeters 24/7

• Remote-activated dual-pass parking garage with concierge-connected optical license plate recognition

• Registered vehicles only in resident parking and locker areas

• Optional in-suite motion and door sensors for additional protection

Houses

• Security is homeowner’s full responsibility (alarms, cameras, locks)

• No concierge, patrol, or live-monitored entry points

• Risk of package theft or unwanted solicitation is typically higher

4. Customization & Personalization

Condos

• Limited control over exterior elements or shared spaces

• Interior customization is usually permitted — and increasingly sophisticated

At The Unionville, buyers enjoy a range of curated upgrade options:

• Kitchen finishes, lighting fixtures, and flooring materials

• Smart home technology, flexible den layouts, and built-in storage solutions

• Luxury inclusions such as Miele appliances, Trevisana Italian cabinetry, and quartz countertops

Houses

• Full control to renovate, reconfigure, or extend as desired

• Greater flexibility — but also greater expense and project management

Who Should Consider a Condo like The Unionville?

• Young professionals seeking convenience, security, and time freedom

• First-time buyers looking to take advantage of incentives and predictable monthly costs

• Young families who want to live in a premium neighbourhood with top-rated schools and walkable amenities

  
  

Who Should Consider a House?

• Larger families needing more bedrooms, private yards, or storage

• Hobbyists who want garages, workshops, or flexible outdoor space

• Buyers focused on land appreciation and full renovation freedom

The Bottom Line

For many young buyers in the GTA, a condo offers the ideal entry point into homeownership: lower upfront costs, lifestyle-enhancing amenities, and locations that keep you connected to everything that matters.

However, if space, privacy, and full control over your property are top priorities, a house may be worth the higher investment.

Explore The Unionville — Smart Living in a Connected Community

Still deciding between a condo and a house? Visit The Unionville and experience a new standard in modern condo living — with customization options, premium amenities, and a walkable Markham address designed for the next generation of homeowners.