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If you're in the market for a new home, you may be weighing your dwelling options. There are different lifestyles that come with different types of homes, and not all of them suit everybody. If you're trying to decide between a condominium and a house, here are five points to consider.

Those Who Love Lawns or Yearn for a Yard

Those with a green thumb or a flare for landscaping may love having a yard to clip and groom. Others, however, would rather not be bothered with regular mowing, weeding and watering. If you've had a large yard in the past and found the maintenance bothersome, you're likely to be much happier leaving the landscaping to someone else. There are other exterior items to consider well. The upkeep on a home exterior can be extensive. A recent client of ours moved to Calgary from Vancouver, where gutter repairs and annual exterior home maintenance was required on a regular basis. The cost-benefit for them, considering that they rarely used their yard, no longer made sense, which is why upon their move from the Lower Mainland they opted for condo-life in Calgary instead. Some people don't need to have had a lawn (etc.) to decide that they would rather ditch the added responsibility all together and spend their time focused on other interests.

Required Space and Square Footage

Although there are some condominiums with large square footage, those looking for more space will have more to choose from when looking at houses. If you think you're unable to downsize to a smaller space and have too much stuff to fit in a condo, a house may be the choice for you. Make sure you're realistic with your space requirements and find the right fit for you and your family.

Common Spaces and Nearby Neighbours

When living in a condominium it's important to be friendly, and it can also be rather difficult to avoid your neighbours. Some people love living in a common building and regularly chatting with neighbours. If this sounds like you, a condo could be a good fit. You'll have common spaces and possibly shared amenities where you can interact with and get to know other residents of the building.

The Highs and Lows of Condo Living

The thought of living on the top floor of a high-rise is exciting to some, but scary to others. Although there are many great condo units low to the ground, those wary of heights may have to limit their options when shopping for a condo. If you have concerns pertaining to height or mobility issues, a high-rise may not be the right fit for you. Elevators may require occasional maintenance, and can leave residents walking up and down the stairs.

Hobbies That Need Work Space

If you have a collection of power tools, or a hobby that requires ample space, a condo may not be able to provide you with the room you need. It may be easier to find a house with a workshop or basement where you can craft, build and create, than it would be to set up your hobby space in a condominium. If your hobby is particularly noisy, neighbours may not embrace or appreciate it, and you may find yourself receiving complaints.

There are many great housing options in the Calgary area. To learn about local real estate in Aspen Woods, or to find more community information contact Ross Pavl at (403) 837-8100. Finding the perfect place for buyers to call home is my primary purpose, and my pleasure.