Do Canberrans prefer a townhouse or an apartment?

Townhouses and apartments are both viable options for a wide range of buyers, but there are many factors to consider when choosing between the two.

Amy Wilson of Belle Property Canberra says it’s not necessarily a case of “either/or”.

“Some buyers see townhouses as a step beyond apartments on the property ladder toward a detached home,” she says.

“They see the value in bigger living spaces and outdoor entertaining that a townhouse can offer.”

However, she says apartments also offer many advantages, depending on your priorities.

“Apartments appeal because of the promise of low maintenance and greater building security,” she says.

“And developments are typically in areas where they are close to everything: shops, cafes, bars, gyms and recreational areas.”

Stuart Dovers of Dovers & Co says supply is also a factor in the apartment and townhouse market.

“It’s self-evident there are many more apartments in the market, under construction or in the pipeline,” he says.

“And builders are always looking to increase the appeal of their products to buyers – whether that be in fixtures and fittings or in the variety of common amenities.”

Dovers says more townhouses have been built in recent years in areas like the Molonglo Valley, Tuggeranong and Gungahlin.

“And we’re seeing more of them being built within an urban infill environment in the longer-established areas,” he says, adding that the decision on dwelling type really comes down to what kind of lifestyle you want.

• Price: A townhouse in a good location will generally increase in value at a higher rate than a comparable apartment as it sits on land and often has a bigger footprint.
• Investment: Factors like a desirable location, greater privacy and a bigger living footprint make townhouses more likely to attract a higher rent for increased cash flow and a better yield for investors.
• Taste the freedom: Apartments, however, are generally more affordable and benefit from low maintenance requirements, freeing residents to enjoy a wide range of shared amenities and (usually) convenient access to everything.

Check out our top townhouses and apartments for sale:

Macquarie

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One of the most sought-after features in a two-storey villa or townhouse is a main suite located on the lower level.

This three-bedroom contemporary dwelling delivers on that with 138 square metres of living and plenty more surprises to delight a buyer looking for low-maintenance living.

Another hot button is a second living area and, yes, that too gets a tick.

The entry leads into the first of those, on timber flooring that extends into a larger kitchen, dining and living space.

This, in turn, flows out to a lovely entertaining area and landscaped garden with a north-western aspect.

The main bedroom features a large walk-in wardrobe and an en suite, while the two upstairs bedrooms are fitted with built-in robes and share the main bathroom.

Comfort is delivered through ducted reverse-cycle air-conditioning and double-glazed windows throughout. Other features include floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains and block-out blinds, Parisi tapware and integrated Miele kitchen appliances.

Generous storage options include custom, built-in bookshelves and further “after-market” inclusions in the kitchen.

There’s a double garage with rear access to a secure, fenced courtyard.

The home is close to everything – quality schooling, nature walks, sports ovals, Jamison Plaza, public transport and Westfield Belconnen – and is an easy drive from the CBD.

It’s an ideal residence for all demographics, including first-home buyers, professional couples, young families and downsizers looking for single-level living with plenty of room for guests.

Price guide: $870,000-$910,000

Private sale

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Amy Wilson 0405 130 332

Or try these:

Kingston

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Price guide: $949,000 +

Private sale

Agent: Dovers & Co, Stuart Dovers 0413 836 330

Casey

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Price guide: $500,000 +

Auction: 10am, August 14

Agent: Hayman Partners, Anthony McCormack 0425 283 588

Greenway

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Price guide: $649,000 +

Private sale

Agent: Independent Inner North & City, Jayson Bush 0424 236 431