Comparing Housing Options - Which type of property fit your lifestyle.

by Catherine Potin

When you downsize, you’re not just looking for a smaller house. You’re choosing a way of life. More time for golf or travel? A garden without the endless upkeep? Coffee on a sunny patio instead of weekends of chores?

Here’s how the three most popular options for downsizers compare in Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula.

The condo: convenience and lock-and-leave freedom

Suits you if you want little or no exterior maintenance, a sense of community and the freedom to lock the door and travel.

Condos in downtown Victoria, James Bay, Oak Bay and Sidney often put shops, cafés, the water and transit within walking distance. Some buildings offer amenities like a fitness room or a guest suite.

Look for: an elevator, accessible entrances, secure parking and storage, and a well-run strata. Review the bylaws, recent minutes and depreciation report before you buy.

The townhouse: more space, less upkeep

Suits you if you’d like more room and a bit of private outdoor space than a condo offers, without looking after a whole house.

Townhouses usually share exterior maintenance through the strata, while giving you a patio or small garden of your own. You’ll find good options in Oak Bay, Fairfield, Brentwood Bay, Saanichton and Sidney.

Look for: the number of levels (main-floor living is especially sought after), the size of the outdoor space, and what the strata fees cover.

The one-level rancher: privacy without the stairs

Suits you if you value the privacy of a detached home and a manageable garden, but want everything on one floor.

Ranchers and bungalows are often found in established neighbourhoods in Saanich, Central Saanich and around Sidney. Because they’re popular with downsizers and in limited supply, the good ones tend to attract strong interest.

Look for: no stairs at the entrance, an open layout, a walk-in shower, and a garden you’ll enjoy rather than feel tied to.

Find your fit

The right choice depends on how you want to live, not just on square footage. To compare the options side by side, see Exploring housing options, or browse current condos, townhouses and ranchers.

Not sure which one fits you yet?

My free journal, Where Could You Go Next?, helps you work out how you want to live next. And when you’d like current prices and a curated search, I offer a complimentary 30-minute conversation.

Get the journal → Book a conversation →

Catherine Potin, Real Estate Advisor, Engel & Völkers Vancouver Island