Whether it’s a downtown tower, an inner-city mid-rise or a lifestyle-connected four-storey condo in the suburbs, single-level apartment style living offers a rich, fulfilling option for new home buyers.

Apartment condos have always been thought of as a perfect first-time homebuyer opportunity, but they can also be a comfortable nest for seniors, retirees, and empty nesters. More families are getting into condos these days, as well.

Condos, are after all, are the most affordable new home option in any market. But there is more to their appeal across so many demographics than just affordability.

“For condo buyers, it all comes down to lifestyle choice. Many believe that condo living gives them flexibility. It allows them to lock and leave, focus on things like travel, hobbies, career, personal life versus spending free time and money on home maintenance,” says Carrington Communities Project Sales Manager, Mick Rahall.

They also offer relative affordability, as they can be the perfect first-time homebuyer opportunity – budget-friendly and allows them to build equity. Retirees looking to age in place also see the benefit in single-level living. It’s a tempting option for investors, as well, and even young families are finding a fit here.

Today’s condos

Today, apartment condos have evolved from just the traditional four-storey wood frame building, and many now offer a complete lifestyle package with tons of in-house amenities. They are thought of less as crash pad where one just goes to sleep, to a home that offers a high quality of life.

In Edmonton, a name that has become synonymous with elevated apartment condo living is Carrington Communities. Since 1973, Carrington Communities has been developing Edmonton’s best-known multi-family homes and are an acknowledged expert in the market offering everything from condos designed for the first-time homebuyer, to luxurious single-level apartments meant for the downsizer looking for the comforts of a home they have been accustomed to.

Currently offering condos in southwest Edmonton, Carrington Communities builds for all kinds of lifestyles and all stages of life, says Carrington Communities’ Marketing Manager, Courtney Provencal Provencal. “What is important is the accessibility to amenities that the buyer wants.”

Affordability factor

The affordability of apartment condos can never be overlooked. “With prices on the rise, you may simply be priced out of the market with a townhome or duplex,” Provencal says. “Alternatively, if you are downsizing from a larger home, the freedom of a lower mortgage payment may be appealing as you can use your savings to enjoy other things in life.”

She says Carrington is also seeing buyers wanting their condos as a reflection of the lifestyle they choose.

“More and more we are seeing people want to treat their condo building as an extension of their home, as part of a wider community,” she says.

New luxury condos

There is much excitement over Carrington’s latest development – Aspire at Jagare Ridge. Rahall says they are some of the most upscale condos around in southwest Edmonton these days and – like all Carington’s developments – is surrounded by amenities. “The views available are also pristine, with the prestigious Jagare Ridge golf course at our doorstep.”

It is a five-storey condo development with 150 units total spread out in two phases. The first phase of 85 units has just been released and Rahall says it has been very warmly received with seven already sold.

“It is primarily aimed at the downsizer who is ready for a lifestyle change, although we are also getting younger buyers who love the luxurious lifestyle we offer.”

“Our clients are very astute and already know the homebuying process and realize the value that Aspire can offer,” he adds.

The first four floors offer nine-foot ceilings, while the top floor has 10-foot ceilings. “It is the pinnacle of modern living with impeccably designed homes that set a new standard for luxury.”

Each unit is thoughtfully curated with premium finishes, from gourmet kitchens to spa-inspired bathrooms, every detail is designed for sophistication and comfort.

On offer are primarily two-bedroom suites but one-bedroom units are also available, all with underground titled parking. There is a dedicated, two-storey amenity clubhouse that has an airconditioned fitness centre, furnished games room, and a chef’s kitchen that can be booked by residents for special occasions.

“We will also have an outdoor pickle ball court set back from the residential units so players can enjoy their game without worrying about the noise disturbing their neighbours,” Rahall says. Buyers can reserve their unit now with a $2,500 reservation fee. Possessions are slated for early 2027.

A condo for everyone

Carrington also has Evolve condos now under construction, located in the highly desirable Magrath neighbourhood in southwest Edmonton where Provencal says they have seen a wide demographic of buyers, including downsizers moving from their large homes and professionals looking for a maintenance-free lifestyle rich in amenities.

Evolve condos offer one-, two-, and two-bed + den luxury condos from 763 – 1964 square feet. “It is a luxury location fit for luxury condos, Evolve is nestled along the Whitemud Creek Ravine, giving you access to the most coveted and protected 59-acre nature reserve in Edmonton, Provencal says. Prices start from $284,900. For more information about their various developments, visit Carrington.ca.