Calgary Condo Guide – Condo Styles

Calgary Condo Guide to Understanding Different Condo Styles

Condos are like people; they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and types. Apart from industrial and commercial, several kinds of residential condos exist in Calgary. If you are a first time condo buyer and are looking for a new condo, understanding some of the terminology used to describe different types is crucial. If not, you might already be familiar with some of the abbreviations below, which is great! Life isn’t put on hold to go look at real estate, so knowing the exact home style you want will save your valued time. For your convenience I have listed the different abbreviations for condo varieties.

Condominium “Style” Definitions

• STUDI (Studio): One combined living area with one designated bedroom
• APART (Single Level Apartment): All of the living space is contained on one level
• APARTM (Multi-level Apartment): A multi-level dwelling unit is defined as a condominium or apartment dwelling that contains finished living space on more than one floor
• LOFT (Loft): A large open space in a factory, warehouse or other commercial space, or a type of residence that results from the conversion of such a room. These spaces generally contain very high ceilings, large windows, concrete floors and ceilings in some cases.
• PENTH (Penthouse): A penthouse apartment is a special apartment on the top floor of a building. It may have exclusive features such as a private entrance or elevator and often occupies the entire floor.
• VILLA (Villa): Typically a bungalow-style dwelling, detached or semi-detached, with an attached garage on the same level as the living area and registered under a condominium title. The condominium plan may include the garage as a part of the unit size

If you see these abbreviations on a condo advertisement, you will know exactly what to expect. If you have any other questions about these condo types, please call me at 403.370.4180 for answers!

Now, maybe you have viewed that new Calgary condo and absolutely love it. Well, here are a few extra things to consider before deciding on a purchase:

• Do some comparisons for dollar per square foot to check to see if the monthly condo fees are affordable and reasonable above all. Higher end condos will have more expensive rates.
• Prepare for the future by knowing that condos with views are typically priority over ground-floor units without one on the resale condo market and sometimes have slightly increased value.
• Think about the direction your condo is facing. If it is facing in two different directions, let’s use west and south as an example, more natural light will enter. If your condo is facing straight north, then chances are it might be a bit dimmer than a condo facing east and north. For townhomes, the more light entering the premise, the more likely it is to sell quickly and sometimes for higher value as well.
• Where is your condo located? Are there amenities and services in walking distance? What about its proximity to recreational parks, public transportation and connectivity to main routes in Calgary?
• Are the in-house amenities provided good enough for you? If there is something missing from the package, there is sure to be a condo plan in another development that fits your desires perfectly.

There is much to consider when purchasing a new condo. By educating yourself and letting me as your Calgary REALTOR help in the process, you will be fully prepared to make the decision to buy without wasting too much of your valued time. For more on condominiums, check out the Complete Resale Calgary Condo Guide.