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Townhouse vs Condo Strata in Surrey: Which Is Right for You?

When buying a home in Surrey, BC, one of the biggest decisions is whether to choose a townhouse or a condo strata unit. Both are popular in Surrey’s rapidly growing neighbourhoods—offering affordability, community living, and shared amenities. But they differ in space, fees, responsibilities, and lifestyle.

If you’re comparing townhouse vs condo strata in Surrey, here’s what you need to know before making a decision.

What Is a Condo Strata?

A condo strata is an individual unit within a building or complex where you own the interior of your home but share ownership of common property (hallways, lobbies, amenities, etc.) with other owners.

In Surrey, condos are common in areas like:

  • Surrey Central (high-rise and mid-rise towers)

  • Guildford (affordable mid-rise units)

  • Newton (low-rise, entry-level condos)

Condo living typically includes:

  • Smaller living space compared to townhouses

  • Higher strata fees due to building maintenance, elevators, and amenities

  • Shared facilities such as gyms, lounges, and rooftop spaces

What Is a Townhouse Strata?

A townhouse strata is a multi-level home, often attached to others in a row, where you own both the interior and part of the exterior (walls, roof, sometimes a yard). Common areas—like driveways, pathways, and green space—are shared through the strata.

In Surrey, townhouses are especially popular in:

  • Fleetwood (family-friendly complexes)

  • Cloverdale (newer developments with garages and small yards)

  • Sullivan Station and Clayton Heights (modern, multi-level layouts)

Townhouse living typically includes:

  • More square footage and bedrooms than condos

  • Lower strata fees (though still applicable)

  • Private entrances and often a small yard or patio

Key Differences: Townhouse vs Condo Strata in Surrey

Feature

Condo Strata

Townhouse Strata

Space

Smaller (1–2 bedrooms typical)

Larger (often 3+ bedrooms, multi-floor)

Strata Fees

Higher (covers more shared costs)

Lower (less common amenity maintenance)

Maintenance

Minimal (building covers most exterior)

Moderate (owners responsible for parts of exterior)

Amenities

Often extensive (gym, pool, concierge)

Limited (playgrounds, clubhouses)

Privacy

Less privacy (shared walls on all sides)

More privacy (private entry, fewer shared walls)

Price Range in Surrey

Generally more affordable entry point

Higher starting price than most condos

 How Surrey Strata Rules Affect You

Whether you choose a condo or townhouse in Surrey, both are governed by strata corporations that:

  • Enforce bylaws (pets, rentals, renovations)

  • Collect monthly strata fees

  • Manage building maintenance and insurance

Pro Tip: Always review the strata minutes, financial statements, and depreciation report before buying to understand future costs or special levies.

Which Is Right for You?

Choose a Condo Strata if you want:

  • Lower purchase price

  • Minimal maintenance

  • Urban living close to SkyTrain and amenities

Choose a Townhouse Strata if you want:

  • More space for a family

  • Garage or parking space

  • A balance between condo convenience and single-family privacy

Final Thoughts: Townhouse vs Condo in Surrey

Both condos and townhouses offer great opportunities in Surrey’s growing property market—it comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans.

At Future Assets Group, we help buyers weigh the pros and cons, review strata documents, and choose the right home in the right neighbourhood.

📞 Thinking of buying a townhouse or condo strata in Surrey? Let’s talk—we’ll guide you through every step of the process.

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