We all know that condos offer a level of comfort that you just don’t get with a house. You still get the space and comfort of a home without all the yard work. But which one should you choose? Do you want a tall building or a short one? Read on to find out what the differences are between the two condos and what are the advantages of each type.
There really isn’t a consensus on what defines each type of condo. Generally speaking, a garden-style condominium is one with an exterior entrance/exit that opens onto a central courtyard or garden patio. Think of it as a very low headroom unit.
These condos are generally one to three stories tall, although in some areas the building is a bit taller, up to six stories. They are usually accessed from the outside, either by going up a short flight of steps or up several flights of stairs. It’s easy to confuse low-rise condos with townhomes.
Low-rise condos tend to be less expensive than high-rises because they don’t have a 24/7 security team controlling access and they don’t have small shops or services. However, the places where these condos are located are usually much quieter and much more private than cities that are home to high-rise units. That being said, they may involve a commute to work or entertainment that you don’t have in a tall building.
A high-rise condo often features stunning views of the city, nearby mountains, or the surrounding countryside, depending on its location. Their central location makes them convenient to live and work near the restaurants and theaters you love. They also often have a central lobby where a security station is installed. Control and secure access to drives makes things much more secure, especially for people who live in the city. However, this can make things difficult for guests who want to visit us.
They often have elevators as well, which makes getting around much easier, as well as bringing in larger purchases. All entrances are accessed from inside, making them excellent options in areas with bad weather. All maintenance is covered by lease or condo fees. They may also have on-site laundry and dry cleaning services, as well as common areas, gyms, and pools.
All those extra features that skyscrapers have come at a price. They usually have more expensive condo fees to pay for those features. They are also home to many more residents, so they will be busier and less private than low-rise condos. Also note that the relative amount of yard space to number of units will be greatly reduced from a low rise building.
So how do you choose which one is best for you? The best way is to choose a real estate agent or Realtor who is willing to show you multiple units. That way, you can see what layout you like, what building height you like, and what part of the city suits you best.