Duplex homes: a winning pair

The two-of-a-kind might be the lowest hand to win with in poker, but the paired homes – or duplex – hits the jackpot everytime, especially among first-time homebuyers.

Homebuilders have different names for the duplex. Some call it a side-by-side home, or a semi-detached home, or even a paired home. No matter what it is called, its flexibility, functionality, and perhaps most importantly, its affordability has made it a perennial best-seller for Edmonton’s homebuilders.

A duplex is a single structure featuring two residences, each with its own private entrance and one shared wall (there is usually a gap between the walls of the two homes to lessen sound transfer). Each home is individually owned, and unlike townhomes, have no condo fees. It’s twice the nice at half the price.

And in these days of rising prices for homes, it’s the go-to for many first-time homebuyers.

“Duplex homes are popular for a variety of reasons,” says Tara Van Horn, Director of Marketing & Communications at Coventry Homes. “One of the most important is that they offer the benefits of homeownership without the expense and maintenance of a single-family home.”

They are priced right too, says Excel Homes Marketing Manager, Kristina Plank. “They are typically priced lower compared to a laned or front garage home that has similar square footage and features.” There’s an energy efficiency factor too, she adds. “Because of the shared walls, duplexes are often more energy efficient.”

Multi-use models

Besides its inherent affordability, the flexibility duplex homes offer homebuyers is just as integral to its appeal. There have been instances where families buy both units so the parents can live in one household and the kids in the next.

Sound transfer used to be the biggest knock against duplexes, but that is largely a problem in the past as the advances in sound attenuation technology and floorplan designs work to limit the creaks and cracks.

Duplexes today are seen as an attractive alternative to condos or townhomes, and many are readily available in Edmonton’s best communities.

Innovative designs

Edmonton homebuilders have continued to improve on models, and there are new floorplans that are sure to appeal to the duplex buyer.

“At Coventry Homes, our duplexes have optional layouts, which can be the jumping off point to customize the floorplan to suit your needs,” Van Horn says. “We understand that one size doesn’t fit all, and we encourage our clients to personalize their duplex to suit their lifestyle.”

“Our duplex models feature open to above great rooms, walk-out basements, bonus rooms and oversized master suites that all give the feeling of single-family homes without the price point,” she adds.

Excel Homes’ 35th anniversary celebrations continue and the new and improved standard specifications they have introduced throughout their line of homes have been a hit. Among the new specifications are soft close drawers and cabinet doors, knockdown ceiling texture, ¾-inch quartz countertop throughout the home with an undermount sink and so much more, Plank says.

Also key, Plank says, is that Excel’s homes have Built Green certification with an EnerGuide rating that includes green initatives like Energy Star appliances.

“Our homes are Built Green certified with an EnerGuide rating and include green initiatives like Energy Star rated appliances, a high-efficiency combo furnace and hot water tank, a smart thermostat, and a video doorbell, plus all homes are third-party blower door tested. We continue to provide best in class services like including legal fees, additional new home warranty and a move in concierge service with Virtuo.

A wide selection to choose from

Coventry Homes currently offers six different duplex models - all with front attached garages – in the Greater Edmonton area. They range from 1,362 to 1,747 square-feet.

“Two of our models, the Titas and the Izar, have optional layouts with 4 bedrooms. Many of our duplex Quick Possession homes are built with 4 bedrooms to accommodate larger families,” Van Horn says.

“Our duplex homes have been popular among a diverse range of buyers. First time home buyers, families, young professionals, and downsizers have all found Coventry Homes’ duplexes to be an excellent fit. Duplexes provide more privacy and space than condos or some townhomes while providing the benefit of homeownership and lesser expense than a single family home.” Find out more at Coventryhomes.ca

Excel Homes just opened two new duplex showhomes in The Orchards. (Sales centre: 2371 Chokecherry Close SW), starting from the mid $400,000s, Plank says.

The first one is The Emerson, a 1,462 square-foot two-storey attached home with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. “The Emerson is a functional and fashionable duplex home with an attached double-car garage. At the heart of your new home, you’ll find your kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry and additional storage. This area is the ideal space for bringing families and friends together to share a meal and make new memories. The second-floor features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two walk-in closets, as well as your laundry room and two linen closets.”

Next is The Bentley, a 1,555 square-foot two-storey attached home that allows buyers to experience all that duplex living has to offer with this spacious and modern floor plan. “The Bentley is made for families, so we have included an attached double-car garage for functionality and convenience,” Plank says.

“Our duplexes have 3 bedrooms as a standard and side entrances with a legal basement suite development are available in communities where zoning is permissible.” Go to excelhomes.ca for more information.