Blog

Bungalows vs. Duplexes: What’s the Best Fit for Your Family?

Choosing the right home for your family is a big decision, especially when it comes to selecting between bungalows and duplexes. Both options come with their own sets of benefits and trade-offs, particularly in the Edmonton and St. Albert markets, where lifestyle and budget considerations can vary. Let’s dive into the key aspects of each to help you determine which is the best fit for your family.

Space and Layout: Which Home Suits Your Lifestyle?

  • Bungalows: Known for their single-level design, bungalows offer a layout that is accessible and easy to navigate, ideal for families with young children or seniors. In St. Albert and Riverside, bungalows typically range from 1,200 to 2,000 square feet, with open-concept designs that create a spacious feel. This layout fosters a sense of togetherness, as the centralized kitchen and living spaces are often connected. Large lots and backyard spaces also provide plenty of room for kids to play, making bungalows a family favorite for suburban areas.
  • Duplexes: Duplexes, whether side-by-side or up-and-down, generally offer two levels, which can provide more privacy and space separation within the home. A side-by-side duplex in Edmonton may range from 1,500 to 2,000 square feet per unit, while an up-and-down duplex offers similar square footage spread across multiple levels. This layout can be beneficial for families who value distinct spaces, like separate bedrooms and living areas. Duplexes also often have designated entrances for each unit, which can be ideal for multi-generational families or rental income opportunities.

Affordability and Budget Considerations

  • Bungalows: In St. Albert and Riverside, bungalows are typically priced higher than duplexes, with average costs ranging from $500,000 to over $900,000. The larger land and single-story design contribute to these costs, as does the preference for spacious yards and family-friendly features in suburban areas. While bungalows represent a higher upfront investment, their long-term resale value is often strong, especially among families and seniors who appreciate single-level living.
  • Duplexes: Duplexes in Edmonton and St. Albert are generally more budget-friendly, with prices starting from $300,000 to $450,000 in Edmonton and $350,000 to $500,000 in St. Albert. This affordability makes duplexes a popular choice for first-time buyers and investors. Additionally, duplexes allow families to potentially earn rental income, as one unit can be rented out while the family occupies the other, offsetting mortgage payments.

Privacy and Lifestyle Preferences

  • Bungalows: As standalone homes, bungalows provide higher levels of privacy, with no shared walls or neighbors immediately adjacent to living spaces. This is particularly appealing in Riverside and other suburban neighborhoods in St. Albert, where families enjoy quiet, spacious surroundings. The ample yard space is another perk, allowing for private outdoor activities like gardening, play areas, and gatherings.
  • Duplexes: While duplexes have shared walls, each unit maintains its own private entrance and amenities. Side-by-side duplexes in Edmonton are designed to maximize privacy with soundproofing and separate entrances, making them a good option for families seeking affordable housing without compromising on personal space. Up-and-down duplexes also offer a good degree of separation between units, though noise transfer may be more noticeable.

Maintenance and Upkeep

  • Bungalows: Due to their larger size and often expansive yards, bungalows in St. Albert come with higher maintenance responsibilities. This includes yard work, roof upkeep, and regular maintenance of larger interior spaces. For families who value having spacious yards and are willing to invest time or resources into maintenance, bungalows provide an appealing option.
  • Duplexes: Duplexes typically come with shared maintenance responsibilities for certain exterior features, like the roof or driveway, which can reduce individual upkeep costs. Many duplex owners find this shared arrangement in Edmonton neighborhoods beneficial, as it allows for a more budget-friendly maintenance approach. However, individual contracts may still apply for services like lawn care and waste removal.

Future Resale Value and Investment Potential

  • Bungalows: With their spacious designs and appeal among families and older buyers, bungalows in Riverside and St. Albert tend to hold strong resale value. These homes cater to families seeking suburban living and single-level accessibility, making them desirable in the long term. Bungalows’ appeal also extends to older buyers and retirees, which keeps demand high and values appreciating steadily.
  • Duplexes: Duplexes offer excellent investment potential, especially in Edmonton where demand for rental units remains steady. With the option to rent out one unit, families can leverage duplexes as an additional income stream, making them attractive to investors and first-time buyers alike. The affordability factor also makes duplexes appealing to buyers seeking a more budget-conscious, versatile property option.

Conclusion

Both bungalows and duplexes offer unique benefits, but the best choice ultimately depends on your family’s lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans. Bungalows in St. Albert and Riverside are ideal for families desiring single-story living, spacious yards, and suburban charm. Duplexes in Edmonton provide affordability, potential rental income, and a practical layout for families who prioritize a balance between privacy and budget.

Consider your family’s current and future needs, and whether a bungalow or duplex better aligns with your lifestyle. In Alberta, Edmonton and St. Albert each offer excellent real estate options to help you find a home that fits just right.