You may call them townhomes, townhouses, condos or — as in news releases from the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver — attached properties. What you really need to know about all of them is that there are two kinds.
Freehold and strata.
That’s what separates the type of “attached” housing you may be looking for, or trying to sell.
If it’s a “freehold” townhome that you own or plan to buy, that includes the land on which it sits. It may look like it’s part of a project (and maybe it is) but it has the traditional legalities of a detached home. You are in control. You own the inside and 
the outside, and you can usually make changes to both as you wish. Normally, you have no condo fees and no risk of special assessments…just more maintenance.
the outside, and you can usually make changes to both as you wish. Normally, you have no condo fees and no risk of special assessments…just more maintenance.If it’s a “strata” townhome that you have or want, then you generally will own the inside. The outside (and the maintenance that comes with it) is owned by the strata corporation, which charges monthly fees and is responsible for exterior maintenance and landscaping, if applicable. Sometimes, a strata complex will include amenities ranging from pools and spas to guest suites and exercise rooms.
The bottom line is to be less concerned about whether a property is called a townhome or a condo, and to focus on whether it’s “freehold” or “strata.”
Need to know more? Call Jennifer at (604) 726-8768 or email her at jenniferclark@nexusrealtycorp.com.