A townhome is a lot of things for a lot of people, but its inherent affordability is what makes it one of the hottest selling multi-family homes today. Now, more versatile, multifunctional townhome models are available in some of the newest communities in and around Calgary making them even more accessible to new home buyers in the market.

Townhome buyers love the fact that they can get a two- or three-bedroom (increasingly, even four bedrooms) home for a lower price than is typical for a duplex or laned home, with the extra advantage of a low-maintenance lifestyle. Some also come with attached garages and developable basements, which add to their allure. The fact that they are available in traditional or no-condo fee versions also helps in the buyers’ decision making.

We spoke to a couple of Calgary’s top townhome developers to get their insights on the enduring popularity of this multi-family housing type, and why it might be the right-size home for you.

Why buy a townhome

Townhomes come in all shapes and forms. Some are perfect for the first-time homebuyer looking for an affordable way to get into the market, there are also townhomes designed to fit the downsizer crowd with all the elegance and luxury they have been accustomed to. Young families are also increasingly seeing the benefits of townhome living.

Scott Clarke, Trico Homes Area Manager at the new Chelsea Court Townhomes in Chestermere says the time is right to buy a townhome today, especially for buyers wanting to get into the market.

“Particularly in Calgary/Chestermere, real estate values are climbing and many people are looking for that first step into homeownership. With townhomes you get most of the benefits of a single-family home with a care-free lifestyle where you only need to be concerned with the interior of the home and we’ll take care of the exterior.”

While Trico Homes more upscale West83 townhomes are perfect for the snowbird that likes to travel. “We offer a lock-and-leave lifestyle with large floorplans of up to 1,800 square-feet,” says West83 Area Manager, Adam Zymirski.

Minto Group Senior Marketing Manager, Anu Henke, says the wide variety of townhomes to choose from makes it even an easier decision for many,

“The market provides a wide variety of townhome options, from condo townhomes to freehold homes, urban-style stacked towns to those with attached garages—giving buyers the flexibility to find a home that suits their needs.”

She adds that modern townhomes foster a strong sense of community and often provide a more attainable path to homeownership.

What to consider

With a wide range of townhomes available today, the first step is to determine what best fits your lifestyle, Henke says. “Do you prefer a low-maintenance home with shared amenities, or do you want autonomy over your property and yard? Condo-style townhomes provide communal benefits, while freehold options offer greater independence.”

Location, access, and amenities are always key considerations when choosing a home, she adds. “At Minto, our customer-first approach sets us apart. As both the developer and builder of our communities, we ensure thoughtful planning and execution to create well-designed neighbourhoods. Our dedication to exceptional customer service has earned us the prestigious Avid Awardfor three consecutive years, recognizing the highest customer ratings among Alberta builders.”

“When buyers are considering townhomes, they will need to consider whether the features of a development will work for them and their family’s lifestyle and should focus on quality,” Clarke says. “There are many things that go into the building of a home, foremost is trust in the builder’s reputation, which Trico certainly has earned.”

Zymirski agrees. “We’re proud to say that Trico is the highest rated builder online through Homestar Reviews. We’ve earned these reviews by living out our philosophy and providing the absolute best customer service that the industry has to offer.”

Trico is also Western Canada’s only Certified B Corp homebuilder, he adds. “We’re dedicated to balancing purpose & profit & using business as a force for good, and adhere to our corporate philosophy of ‘Doing Well, By Doing Good.’”

New and upcoming options

New townhome developments are available in many of Calgary’s newest communities. Trico Homes is currently selling three townhome projects: Colours of Seton in the southeast, Chelsea Court Townhomes in Chestermere, and West83 Townhomes in the southwest.

“We also have a few new townhome projects starting this year Verona West NW Calgary, Stillwater Estates in Harmony, Springbank and Vantage Rise in Airdrie,” says Trico Homes Marketing Director Glenda Schwartz.

While the Minto Group just launched a new phase in its East Hills Crossing development along Calgary’s eastern border.

East Hills Crossing offers a diverse selection of townhomes designed for various lifestyles, Henke says. “The community includes traditional rear-drive townhomes, freehold townhomes with single and double front-attached garages, and newly introduced urban-style stacked townhomes—offering unmatched value in East Calgary, starting in the $360s (+GST).”

In neighbouring Belvedere Rise, Minto features back-to-back townhomes with drive-under garages, private balconies, and quick possession options starting in the $420s (+GST).

Trico Homes

Clarke says Chelsea Court is a perfect option for first-time buyers looking to enter the market. “Starting the journey with a townhome is a nice way to ease into home ownership. We tend to offer lower pricing and a simpler maintenance journey. Our buyers lover the convenience of living in a townhome development.”

Chelsea Court offers row townhomes with tandem double garages, with two- and three-bedroom homes that includes many options for personalization including entry level flex room. With prices starting in the $430,000’s, it is quite an affordable deal, Clarke says.

“In Chelsea Court, we offer row townhomes with tandem double garages. We offer affordable 2 & 3 bedroom homes with attached single or tandem garages, with many options for personalization including entry level flex room.”

West83 has been a big hit for Trico Homes, as the first 75-townhome phase is all but sold out, and phase 2 – with another 75 homes – is also going quick.

“Our vision for West83 sets a new standard on the west end: it’s an effortlessly cool, timeless style that will ensure sophistication and livability for years to come,” Zymirski says.

The Oakwood – End Unit is particularly selling well, as the 1,796 square-foot, three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, double car garage model checks off plenty of boxes for the predominantly downsizer buyer. Go to tricohomes.com for more.

Minto Group

The Ontario-based developer is fast making a name for itself in Calgary. Their townhomes have been particularly well-received.

“We currently have three townhome developments in the Calgary area, with more on the way,” Henke says.

• East Hills Crossing – offers freehold, traditional, and urban-style stacked townhomes. One showhome open, two more opening next year.
• Belvedere Rise – Featuring back-to-back quick possession townhomes. Move-in-ready homes available for tours.
• Grove Townhomes in Wildflower (Airdrie) – Featuring a range of three- and four-bedroom floorplans. Showhomes are opening this summer.

Henke says the TH8 model at East Hills Crossing is a standout choice for families seeking an alternative to single-family homes. Spanning over 1,500 square feet, this thoughtfully designed townhome includes an attached front-drive double garage, three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a main-level half bath.

Upstairs, buyers will find convenient side-by-side laundry, while the basement level offers untapped potential—features rarely found in townhomes. “This plan truly meets the needs of growing families and homebuyers alike,” she adds. Find out more at minto.com.