What is a Semi-Detached Home?
A semi-detached home is in some ways the perfect in-between option when choosing between buying a detached home—which is much more expensive and has higher maintenance costs, and a townhome—which offers far less space and privacy. A semi-detached home shares a common wall with the neighboring house, which is why it's termed “semi-detached.”
They are also commonly referred to as “semis” or “half houses” and usually have two or three stories, offering a more spacious environment. If you have a growing family or need more space, but still have a limited budget, then a semi-detached home might be the perfect way to upscale your home ownership.
The average size of a semi-detached home in the GTA is usually between 900-1800 ft², not including the basement.
Some Key Advantages of Semi-Detached Homes
- More affordable.
- Easier and less expensive to maintain, given their smaller yards.
- Have lower construction costs, given the “shared” wall/fence/garage aspect.
- Lower heating costs in the winter, given the “shared” wall aspect.
- Lower property taxes.
- Great option for entering the independent housing market at a more affordable price point.
- Great option if you are looking to downsize but still want to maintain home ownership.
Some Key Disadvantages of Semi-Detached Homes
- Noise can still be an issue, given the “shared” wall/fence/garage aspect.
- Less privacy vis-à-vis detached homes.
Semi-detached homes in Toronto (416 Area Code)
Toronto offers a sizable and varied semi-detached housing stock in terms of design, age, and size. The bulk of these houses were built in the pre-World War era but given the quality of materials used and solid workmanship, most are still in very good condition. This is also partly because of the regular upgrades/renovations and maintenance these homes have undergone.
If you are a connoisseur of vintage homes, you can find many of these older semi-detached homes in the downtown core of Toronto city, which showcase the different architectural styles in vogue during the period.
Semi-detached homes in Peel, Durham & York (905 Area Code)
The 905 area code features a variety of newer semi-detached homes that boast contemporary renovations and thoughtfully designed floor plans. These semis typically include three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with luxurious touches such as a master bedroom equipped with a five-piece ensuite washroom. The main floor is designed with a modern, open-concept layout, showcasing modern kitchens and the comfort of a gas fireplace. Over time, the utility of semi-detached homes in the 905 area has experienced a notable increase, attributed to ongoing improvements made by builders who actively listen to the demands and preferences of discerning buyers.
Semi-Detached Homes—Price and Expenses
According to data from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), the average price of a semi-detached home in Toronto was pegged at $1,120,387 (Year-to-Date 2023). Assuming that you would need a minimum 20% percent or $224,077.4 in down payment to consider buying this kind of property, we are sharing below a breakdown of some of the core expenses you will incur during the buying process. If you have more questions or need more clarification, feel free to contact us for more information.
The RE/MAX Royal Team Sachdeva Realty team has over two decades of experience in the region’s real estate market. We can help you find the right home if you are looking to enter the market this year, upsize from your condominium apartment or townhome, or downsize from your detached home. We also offer free home evaluations to residential property owners. If you are looking to sell your semi or buy a new one, contact us for a detailed evaluation of the property you are interested in.
