In a real estate market that seems to be changing by the hour, we are seeing rising popularity in housing types that are different from the standard single family detached home. This blog will explain what a semi-detached home is, the pro’s and cons and what you should consider with a semi.

What is a semi-detached home?

Simply put, a semi-detached home is a home that has two sides owned by two different people. They often share a middle wall and are side-by-side. Semi-detached homes offer greater value and affordability than detached homes.

What’s the difference between a duplex and semi-detached home

A semi detached home are two homes that share a common wall and are attached, but have two different owners. A duplex are two homes attached that share a common wall/ floor that are owned by one person.

Why would someone want to buy a semi-detached home?

There are many reasons why someone would want to buy a semi detached home. Below we’ll list some of the pros of a semi-detached:

Lower cost:

A semi-detached home often costs less than a detached counterpart, because you don’t own the whole building. This can be a great option to get into a home as a first time buyer as there are often semi-detached homes in the area of detached homes. Although the detached may be out of reach, you won’t have to sacrifice the area or neighbourhood.

It’s worth noting however, that although semi-detached are cheaper to buy, they’re also less desirable to sell to new buyers down the road for re-sale. In this report from wowa, it outlines that a semi-detached in the GTA is about 40% cheaper than a detached home.

No condo fees or HOA fees

Unlike condos or townhouses, semi-detached homes rarely have condo fees associated to them. This makes budgeting very predictable and offers low monthly expenses.

Lower utility costs

Because you share a common interior wall with the other half, semi-detached homes are often more energy efficient than their detached counterparts. Things like Guelph utilies (hydro/water) and gas tend to be cheaper

You don’t have to sacrifice space

One of the main misconceptions of a semi-detached home is that they’re small. This is often not the case, and in fact some semis can be larger than detached homes. A recent example is a semi-detached that we sold at 21 McTague St in Exhibition Park that was over 1400sf. This is larger than most post-war detached bungalows that between 900-1200sf! In many newer builds, semis can be anywhere between 1500-2000sf!

Rental value

Because of all the reasons above, semi-detached homes could be a great option for investors. Additionally, if you ever want to upsize to a detached home, renting out your existing semi-detached could be a great financial move.

What are the cons of semi-detached home?

Lack of privacy

The main concern most people have with a semi detached is that you don’t own the whole home. You have a neighbour on the other side of the wall. This is fine if you get along with your neighbour, but if you don’t it can cause a lot of friction.

In some cases, you may also share common space, like a driveway or garage. If this is the case, be sure you understand your obligations and if there are any easements vs right of way on the property.

Keeping up with the Jones’

Another common complaint we hear about semi’s are that you have to maintain your home to the level of your neighbour. Although this isn’t completely true, there is an element of keeping up with the Jones’. As in, if the neighbour has beautiful gardens, so should you. If the neighbour gets new windows, so should you. This is why it’s important to have an open, friendly relationship with your neighbour!

It’s important to note that you need to follow building code and municipal zoning when doing any repairs or updates.

Maintainence and repairs

What happens when one half of the semi wants to get a new roof, because their shingles are exposed to the sun more often? Does the other half have to get a new roof, too? Well no, but it may look super weird, especially if there is a colour difference. This sort of unforeseen expense can creep up anywhere that neighbours have shared space: from landscaping, to roof, to windows and even a dividing fence.

Additionally, in older semis one half would usually have the main plumbing stack, or electrical panel. This means that if the side without the access needs access, they need to come into your half. Also, this could mean trouble for the side that does have access. Things like flooding, repairs and damage disproportionately impact one side. This is less true of modern semis.

Lastly, be sure you are properly insured. You’ll want coverage in the event your neighbour has a flood or fire that impacts your half.

Noise

Shared walls could mean that noise travels into your half. Most older homes have a single or double bricked middle wall. Most new semis have insulation or sound barrier to muffle noise. However, it’s still possible to hear your neighbour, whether you want to or not.

Have questions about semi-detached homes?

If you have questions about semi-detached homes (or homes in general!), get in touch! We help buyers and sellers sell all types of homes and can help you too! More on our homepage: Beth and Ryan Waller