Buying a Townhome vs a Condo: What Do You Actually Get for the Money?

If you’re on the hunt for your first home — or thinking of upgrading from your condo — you’ve probably asked the big question:

Should I buy a larger condo, or make the leap to a townhome?

Let’s break it down by looking at:

• 💰 What you’re paying for
• 🏡 What you’re getting back
• 📍 And why so many buyers in Langley are choosing townhomes as their next move

Let’s Talk Price

Yes, townhomes cost more upfront.

In Willoughby and Langley, the typical price gap between a 2-bedroom condo and a 3-bedroom townhome ranges from $100,000 to $150,000. That can feel like a big jump — but when you look closer at what you’re getting, it might just be the smarter financial move.

With a townhome, you’re not just buying square footage. You’re buying:

• 🛏️ More rooms
• 🔄 More flexibility in how you live
• 📈 More potential resale value

And with prices continuing to rise in the Fraser Valley, that bigger investment today might mean better long-term equity tomorrow.

Size, Layout, and Livability

The difference between a condo and a townhome isn’t just square footage — it’s how that space is used.

Townhomes offer:

• 📐 300–600 more square feet on average
• 🏠 Multi-level living (goodbye, noisy upstairs neighbours)
• 🚗 Private garages, patios, or even fenced yards
• 🎯 Extra rooms for offices, kids, guests, or hobbies

In other words, it’s not just a floor plan upgrade — it’s a lifestyle shift.

Strata Differences That Matter

Both condos and townhomes have strata — but not all strata are built the same.

Here’s how they typically compare:

Condos often come with:

• 🏢 Higher density = more units to manage
• 🛗 Elevators, interior hallways, and underground parking
• 💸 Higher strata fees and more building-wide rules

Townhomes usually offer:

• 🏘️ Fewer shared spaces = lower monthly costs
• 🐾 More flexibility with pets, BBQs, and light renovations
• 🚪 Direct ground-level access — no elevators, no fuss

You still get support for exterior maintenance, landscaping, and garbage collection, but enjoy more independence overall.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Flexibility

This is where townhomes really shine — especially in growing communities like Langley and Willoughby.

They give you the room to:

• 👶 Raise a family without outgrowing your space in 2 years
• 🧑‍💼 Set up a dedicated work-from-home office
• 🍽️ Host friends and family without squeezing around a kitchen island

Plus, when you’re ready to sell, townhomes appeal to a broader buyer pool: young couples, families, and downsizers alike. That demand can help protect your resale value better than a mid-size condo in a saturated tower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are townhomes really worth the higher price tag?
A: Yes — especially if you plan to stay for 5 or more years. The added livability, functionality, and resale value often make the extra upfront cost worthwhile.

Q: Do townhomes have lower strata fees than condos?
A: Generally, yes. Townhomes tend to have fewer shared amenities (like pools or gyms), which helps keep monthly strata costs lower.

Q: What’s the biggest lifestyle difference between the two?
A: Privacy and flexibility. Townhomes usually feel more like a house, with fewer shared walls, no elevators, and extra outdoor space.

Final Thoughts

The gap between condos and townhomes isn’t just about price — it’s about freedom, space, and future potential.

If your budget allows, investing in a townhome could offer you more room to live, grow, and thrive — now and for years to come.

Let’s Talk Strategy

Still unsure if a townhome is the right move for you? Let’s chat. I’ll walk you through real numbers, current listings, and help you choose the home that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals — no pressure, just clarity.

Check Out Langley Condo and Townhouse Listings