Key Takeaways
- Condos make up the largest share of listings in Greater Vancouver, with a median asking price of $688,000 and the shortest time on market at 50 days.
- Townhouses sit in the middle at a median ask of $1,059,000, offering more space than a condo without the full cost or upkeep of a detached house.
- Detached houses carry a median asking price of $2,050,000 and spend longer on the market at 64 days, appealing to families who want yards and separation.
- The choice often comes down to budget, how much space you need now, and how much maintenance you want to take on.
- Each type attracts different buyers: first-time purchasers lean toward condos, growing families toward townhouses, and established households or those wanting land toward detached homes.
What the Numbers Show About Each Type
As of early October, Greater Vancouver had 13,307 homes listed for sale. Condos and apartments made up the largest share at 5,793 listings, or about 43.5 percent of the total. The median asking price for a condo sat at $688,000, and the median time on market so far was 50 days.
Townhouses accounted for 1,735 listings, or 13 percent of the market. The median asking price was $1,059,000, and they had been on the market a median of 44 days. That makes townhouses the quickest to attract interest, though the difference is modest.
Detached houses numbered 4,669 listings, about 35.1 percent of the total. The median asking price was $2,050,000, and they had been listed a median of 64 days. The higher price and longer marketing time reflect a smaller pool of buyers who can afford them and a more deliberate search process.
Who Each Type Typically Suits
Condos draw first-time buyers, young professionals, and people who want to live close to work or transit without the burden of exterior maintenance. Strata fees cover building upkeep, landscaping, and often amenities like a gym or concierge. The trade-off is less control over renovations, shared walls, and monthly fees that can rise.
Townhouses appeal to small families, couples planning to grow, and buyers who want a bit of outdoor space without the full cost of a detached house. You get a yard, often a garage, and more separation than a condo. Strata fees are usually lower than in a high-rise, though you still share some common property. The middle price point makes townhouses a natural step up for buyers leaving a condo or a step down for those selling a larger house.
Detached houses suit families who need room, want privacy, and are prepared to handle all the maintenance themselves. You control the land, the renovations, and the landscaping. The cost is higher, both upfront and ongoing, and the time to sell can be longer because fewer buyers can meet the price.
What to Think About Before You Decide
Start with your budget. The gap between a condo and a detached house is substantial: more than $1.3 million at the median. Borrowing costs, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance all scale with price. A condo's strata fees add a monthly cost, but they cover work you would otherwise pay for yourself in a house.
Consider how much space you need now and in the next few years. A one-bedroom condo works for a single person or a couple, but a growing family will outgrow it quickly. A townhouse with three bedrooms offers more flexibility. A detached house with four or more bedrooms gives you room to spread out, host guests, or work from home without tripping over each other.
Think about maintenance. If you travel often, work long hours, or simply dislike yard work, a condo or townhouse makes sense. If you want to garden, build a deck, or keep tools in your own shed, a detached house gives you that freedom.
Location matters. Condos cluster near transit, shops, and employment centres, which shortens commutes and reduces car dependence. Detached houses are more common farther out, where land is cheaper but travel times grow. Townhouses often sit in between, close enough to amenities but with a bit more breathing room.
Finally, consider how long you plan to stay. Condos and townhouses can be easier to sell when you are ready to move, especially in a slower market. Detached houses take longer to find the right buyer, but they also offer more potential for appreciation over time if the land value rises.
How the Market Looks Across Greater Vancouver
Vancouver itself had 4,230 homes listed, the largest share in the region. Richmond followed with 1,782 listings, and Burnaby had 1,762. Coquitlam, North Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Delta, and New Westminster each had between 568 and 1,115 listings.
The mix of condos, townhouses, and detached houses varies by municipality. Vancouver has a higher concentration of condos, while Maple Ridge and Delta lean more toward detached houses. Richmond and Burnaby offer a broader mix, making them worth a look if you want options across all three types.
If you are comparing neighbourhoods, Renanza's Greater Vancouver market overview breaks down listings by area, and you can browse active homes on the Greater Vancouver listings page.
Making the Choice That Fits Your Life
There is no single right answer. A condo suits someone who values convenience, lower upfront cost, and minimal maintenance. A townhouse works for buyers who want more space and a yard without the full expense of a detached house. A detached house fits families who need room, want control over their property, and can manage the higher cost and upkeep.
The decision comes down to what you need now, what you can afford, and how you want to live. Walk through a few of each type, picture your daily routine, and pay attention to what feels right. The numbers help you narrow the field, but the choice is about how a home fits the life you are building.
If you are ready to explore what is available, Renanza's team can show you listings across all three types and help you weigh the trade-offs. Visit the buyer guides for more on what to look for, or request a free home valuation if you are selling to move.
Sources
Renanza Realty — Analysis of active MLS® listings (CREA DDF®) — Greater Vancouver, as of October 2026
Data last checked: 2026-10-08
