Toronto’s real estate market in 2024 is seeing semi-detached homes rise in popularity, particularly among young families and first-time buyers.
Offering a balance between affordability and space, semi-detached properties have become a preferred choice for buyers seeking more than a condo but less than a detached home.
In November 2024, semi-detached homes accounted for 12% of total residential sales in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), with 1,094 units sold, reflecting a 28% year-over-year increase.
Their growing demand underscores their unique position in the market as a versatile option for a wide range of buyers.
The Numbers: A Snapshot of Semi-Detached Market Trends
- Average price: The average price of a semi-detached home in the GTA reached $1.12 million in November 2024, up 3.6% from the previous year.
- Sales growth: Semi-detached home sales grew by 28% year-over-year, signaling strong demand across the region.
- New listings: New listings for semi-detached homes rose by 4.1%, contributing to a more balanced market and giving buyers additional options.
Why Buyers Are Choosing Semi-Detached Homes
- Affordability Compared to Detached Homes
With detached homes averaging $1.46 million, semi-detached properties offer a more affordable alternative while still providing many of the same benefits, such as private yards and additional living space. Buyers who might be priced out of the detached home market often turn to semi-detached homes as a practical solution. - Ideal for Families
Semi-detached homes provide more space than condos, making them particularly appealing to families seeking additional bedrooms, outdoor areas, and proximity to schools. Suburban areas like Mississauga, Scarborough, and Brampton have seen increased interest from buyers looking for family-friendly neighborhoods with semi-detached housing options. - Investment Potential
Semi-detached homes are highly sought after in the rental market, offering investors an opportunity to generate reliable income. Their strong appreciation potential also makes them a smart choice for buyers looking to build equity over time.
Case Study: A Family’s Journey to Homeownership
Ahmed and Lila, a young couple with two children, had been renting a two-bedroom condo in downtown Toronto.
With their children growing older, they decided to search for a larger home that fit their budget. In November 2024, they purchased a three-bedroom semi-detached home in Pickering for $1.03 million.
For Ahmed and Lila, the move provided the perfect balance of space and affordability. “We wanted a place where our kids could have their own rooms and a backyard to play in,” Lila shared.
Their story reflects the choices many families face as they prioritize space and community while navigating Toronto’s competitive real estate market.
For Buyers: How to Navigate the Semi-Detached Market
Buyers interested in semi-detached homes can benefit from understanding the market dynamics and tailoring their strategies accordingly:
- Focus on Location
Areas like East York, Leslieville, and Oakville are known for their semi-detached housing options, offering a mix of urban convenience and suburban charm. Buyers should prioritize neighborhoods that align with their lifestyle needs, such as proximity to schools, parks, and public transit. - Act Quickly
With semi-detached homes in high demand, properties often sell within 15-20 days of being listed. Buyers should be prepared to make competitive offers and act decisively when they find the right home. - Consider Long-Term Value
Semi-detached homes in well-established neighborhoods tend to appreciate steadily over time. Buyers looking to build equity should prioritize areas with strong infrastructure and development potential.
For Sellers: Maximizing Returns in a High-Demand Market
Sellers of semi-detached homes are well-positioned to achieve favorable outcomes, but strategic preparation is essential:
- Highlight Family-Friendly Features
Buyers often prioritize space, outdoor areas, and proximity to schools. Sellers who emphasize these features in their listings can attract more interest and secure higher offers. - Price Competitively
While demand is strong, pricing a property competitively is crucial to generating immediate interest. Properties priced at or slightly below market value often receive multiple offers, driving up the final sale price. - Invest in Presentation
Staging and professional photography can significantly enhance a property’s appeal. Data shows that well-presented homes sell 18% faster than comparable properties that are not staged.
Semi-Detached Homes vs. Other Property Types
Semi-detached homes occupy a unique position in Toronto’s housing market, offering benefits that set them apart from other property types:
- Compared to Detached Homes: Semi-detached homes provide similar features, such as private outdoor spaces, at a lower price point.
- Compared to Condos: While condos are more affordable, semi-detached homes offer significantly more space and privacy, making them ideal for families.
- Compared to Townhouses: Semi-detached homes offer more independence than townhouses, which often come with shared walls on both sides and higher maintenance fees.
The Human Element: Sellers Benefiting from High Demand
For Margaret, a retiree in East York, selling her semi-detached home in November 2024 was a strategic move.
She listed her three-bedroom property at $1.1 million and received five offers within a week. Margaret ultimately sold for $1.18 million, allowing her to downsize to a smaller condo near the waterfront.
Margaret’s experience highlights the strong demand for semi-detached homes, particularly in desirable neighborhoods where buyers are willing to compete for limited inventory.
Conclusion: Semi-Detached Homes on the Rise
With their balance of affordability and space, semi-detached homes are becoming a top choice for buyers in Toronto’s evolving real estate market.
The 28% increase in sales and steady price appreciation underscore their appeal to families, investors, and first-time buyers alike.
As we move into 2025, semi-detached homes are expected to remain in high demand, driven by their versatility and accessibility.
Whether you’re buying or selling, this property type offers significant opportunities in Toronto’s dynamic housing market.
