Are you considering making the switch from a house to a condo? It can be a very exciting decision, and you might be wondering what life will be like living in a condo. In this post we’ll outline some of the things you can expect to see when you move from a house to a condo. Whether you’re looking at condos for sale in Toronto or any other metro area in Canada, this post will prepare you for your new life in the city!
Your Stuff
If you’re moving from a house to a condo, chances are you’re downsizing, which means you’re probably wondering what you’ll need to do with all your belongings. You may want to start going through your things and getting rid of items you will not need in your new place. Sure, there will be things you want to keep because you simply like them, but for the most part, you’ll need to think practically. Even after you move, and you’re finding places for everything, you may realize there’s more you’d like to get rid of than you initially thought.
Most condos have storage lockers, similar to a basement or attic, to store extra things you may not have room for in your condo, things like outdoor sports equipment, off-season clothing, and holiday decorations.
Organization
Organizing is key if you want to make the most of the space in your condo. Invest in storage containers in your closets and dual-function furniture with built-in storage that will help you optimize your home. Look for things like coffee tables, bedside tables, bed frames with drawers, etc. These types of storage options aren’t cheap, but they’re well worth the money in the long run.
Noise
Condos are typically located in the city, and with city living comes noise. While there’s usually some sort of hum, you’ll likely experience trains, car horns, and emergency sirens coming from outside your condo building. Inside your building, you can expect to hear your neighbours coming and going, the elevator, construction and maintenance, or even music coming from the next unit over.
On top of the regular noise of condo living are the occasional fire alarms. Not only is it just another noise, but it requires you to act. The alarms can sound at any time day or night. What’s helpful in these instances is that usually, your concierge will voice over the speakers to inform you of what’s going on and instruct you on what you need to do.
Community
Making friends in any community is important, including when living the condo life. Whether by the mundane act of riding the elevator together, sparking up a conversation at the pool, or working out together in the gym, getting to know your neighbours and making new friends is relatively convenient compared to suburban or rural communities. It’s common for condo buildings to also have their own Facebook pages and groups to stay in the know of upcoming events, ask questions, or seek recommendations for things in the area.
Utility bills
One of the advantages of living in a condo is the smaller utility bills. Not only are you heating or cooling a smaller space but your neighbours are doing the same, which means you’re all helping the thermostat stay regulated and not have to work so hard. Other things that tend to be less expensive are garbage, water, and sewage as they’re likely included in monthly maintenance fees.
Maintenance-free
Okay, not free as if it doesn’t cost you any money, but as a condo owner, you don’t have to physically maintain the entire condo building. Part of your monthly fees goes towards paying someone else for the maintenance of plumbing, electrical, roofing, and any of the other common-space areas. You also won’t have any yard work to think about because that’s taken care of too!
Garbage Chute
Easily one of the best things about condo-living is not having to worry about the garbage. With the convenience of the garbage chute, you can simply toss your garbage and recyclables down the chute whenever you want and not have to think about it again!
Grocery Shopping
Grocery shopping will be an adjustment, but that’s okay! Using things like a wagon or a bundle buggy makes hauling groceries up several stories a breeze. It may seem silly, but condo living is all about convenience and this is just another area that can make a strenuous task easy.
Amenities
We’ve hinted at a few of these amenities, but it’s true. It’s common for condos to be like their own resort by offering their residents a list of amenities to keep them happy. Whether it be a gym, pool, rooftop gardens, party rooms, etc you won’t have to go far for things to enjoy.
Probably one of the coolest things about living in a condo is the concierge. They aren’t exactly an amenity, but they’re a major perk and one you’ll be glad to have. They help keep the condo building running smoothly, will hold your packages for you, and more!
If you’re looking at Ontario real estate, you might want to check out these condos with the best amenities in Toronto.
Views
Lastly, as if all the above weren’t enough things to expect. Whether living in a bustling city like Toronto, or one of the best condos in North Vancouver, getting several stories up in a condo will likely serve you some breathtaking views you’ll never tire of. Starting your day with a sunrise or ending it looking at a sunset over the city lights is sure to warm your heart, bring a smile to your face, and get you excited about each day.
