Looking to buy in Kelowna and not sure whether to go for a half-duplex or a townhouse? While both offer great alternatives to single-family homes, they come with their own set of advantages and considerations—especially in Kelowna's growing real estate market.

Ownership & Control
One major difference is ownership. With a half-duplex, you own half of the building, which usually comes with more autonomy over your property, both inside and out. You don’t have to deal with strata management or pay monthly strata fees, though you may have shared responsibilities for the roof or exterior with your neighbor. Townhouses, on the other hand, often fall under a strata corporation, meaning decisions about exterior maintenance, landscaping, and any shared amenities are made by the strata board.

Strata Fees vs. Maintenance Costs
Townhomes typically come with strata fees, covering things like maintenance, snow removal, and exterior repairs. In Kelowna, where winters bring snow and summers can be dry, these services can be a big convenience. A half-duplex won't have these fees, but the cost of maintaining your property is entirely on you. With either option depending on the way that the property is legally registered, there may be a shared insurance policy that you need to look into maintaining your self, or if it is a professionally run strata at a townhome this may be handled for you.

Privacy
Half-duplexes generally offer more privacy, as you only share one wall with a neighbor, and often have a private yard or larger lot. Townhouses may share walls with multiple units, so while they can be quieter than condos, they won’t give you as much privacy as a half-duplex.

Affordability
Price is a big factor in Kelowna’s competitive market. Townhouses tend to be more affordable upfront due to shared land costs. However, over time, strata fees can add up, making a half-duplex potentially more cost-effective in the long run, depending on upkeep.

Community & Amenities
Townhouse complexes may come with perks like pools, gyms, or playgrounds, creating a more community-oriented living environment. If you're after a sense of neighborhood or extra amenities, townhouses could be appealing. Half-duplexes, though, offer more independence, which is great if you'd rather not rely on strata or share amenities, and without the restrictions of strata bylaws for your use of the property.

Deciding between a half-duplex and a townhouse in Kelowna? Each has its own pros and cons, and understanding them can help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and financial goals. Ready to explore? Reach out to our team for expert advice tailored to Kelowna’s unique real estate market!