Although condos have long been associated with young professionals, childless couples, or retirees seeking less maintenance, many families are now turning to this type of property as single-family homes become less affordable.
But the presence of a family with children can make the other residents nervous. With noise, smaller rooms, strict rules, narrow-minded neighbours… is failure unavoidable?
Absolutely not!
The Right Building for Your Needs
- It’s important to realize that not all condo buildings are created equal when it comes to children. Some have been designed with families in mind:
- adequate soundproofing (a concrete structure);
- common areas where children are welcome (pool, lounge, garden);
- elevators so everyone can get up and down from the unit easily;
- nearby parks (when there’s no leisure area).
Other types of condominiums are geared towards a quieter, more individualistic lifestyle.
The myth that condos and children don’t mix often stems from a poor fit between the family and the building itself. The typical family’s lifestyle isn’t the problem, but the unsuitable environment.
Children Don’t Necessarily Mean Lots of Noise
Noise is the number one argument against families living in condos. However, it’s not always the children’s fault!
Even a single adult can become a source of conflict in a poorly soundproofed unit.
Conversely, the normal sounds of everyday life are far more tolerable in a well-constructed building. Properly insulated concrete floors and party walls make all the difference.
Moreover, certain buildings have clear rules regarding quiet hours, which often correspond to children’s sleep times. There’s therefore little likelihood of complaints from neighbours (which can result in fines).
Of course, this doesn’t mean that outside of the imposed quiet hours, it’s okay to be as noisy as you want. A factor you’ll want to consider regarding your family’s habits and lifestyle. Here’s a tip: getting your children to wear slippers will help reduce the noise they make when walking around (and that’s something, at least!).
Less Space but More Functionality
Living in a condo with little ones means carefully thinking about how you plan to use the space.
Condo residents tend to own fewer possessions and stay organized. The limited square footage can even work in your favour:
- less stuff
- less wasted space
- less upkeep (and thus more quality time with the kiddos)
That said, a condo with a very rigid layout can pose problems: a lack of storage space, tiny bedrooms, nowhere to set up a home office. Here the issue lies not with the children but with the unit.
In this case, it may be necessary to sell and move into a building better suited to everyone’s needs.
Learning to Be Part of a Community
Raising children in a condo offers one clear benefit: it teaches them the concepts of sharing, following rules, and coexisting with others. This is especially true when there are common areas that encourage residents to socialize.
The kids therefore grow up surrounded by other people, where their behaviour impacts those around them.
In a positive environment, this sense of community can be an advantage rather than a drawback.
The Syndicate of Co-Owners’s Role
It’s important to understand that owning a condo differs from renting an apartment in that a condo building is managed by a syndicate of co-owners. This is an association of co-owners who want to ensure the building stays in good condition, as it represents a significant investment for them. They also want residents to feel comfortable there, so as not to tarnish the building’s reputation.
The syndicate of co-owners thus works to reconcile the varied—and sometimes conflicting—needs and requests of residents. For example, one neighbour insists that the little girls next doors stop their constant shouting, whereas their parents blame the poorly insulated walls.
The syndicate must strike the right balance between addressing complaints and remaining flexible!
Clear rules, enforced with a good dose of common sense, make for a harmonious community.
So, before you buy
Researching the building’s culture is essential: are the current residents fairly noise tolerant (within reason) and open to families? These factors often carry more weight than the condo’s size.
A family with children can successfully live in a condo when it’s a conscious choice and efforts are made to create a pleasant environment. Plus, condo living also offers most families an appealing blend of reduced maintenance and lower costs.