What is a Duplex and Why Should You Consider Buying One in Calgary?

Are you searching for a home that offers both privacy and potential income opportunities? If so, a duplex in Calgary might be the perfect fit. This multi-family housing option combines the convenience of a detached home with the financial perks of shared maintenance costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking a single-family home with reduced costs.

In Wolf Willow, there are two duplex homebuilders to choose from—Shane Homes and WestCreek Homes. There are many other benefits to owning a duplex depending on your lifestyle, which we’ll explore in this blog.

What is a duplex?

A duplex, also known as a semi-detached home, paired home, or side-by-side home, is a single building divided into two private dwellings. Essentially, it’s two single-family homes sharing a common wall. Duplexes offer a unique blend of privacy and affordability, which many prospective homeowners find ideal for a starter home or those looking to invest in a rental property.

Two Distinct Living Spaces

Each unit in a duplex has its own living spaces, kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms, which are often mirrored. These homes have separate entrances to ensure residents can come and go without disturbing their neighbours, unlike condos where there are more shared spaces, like a common main entrance, hallways, elevators, stairwells, etc. Individual backyards can be fenced off to provide residents with a private outdoor area rather than a shared space.

Benefits of owning a duplex

Due to their flexible nature, there are many benefits to owning a duplex over a laned home or a condo, like reduced costs, investment opportunities, and environmental perks.

1. Reduced costs

While the living spaces are separate, certain costs may be shared between the two units,

Exterior home elements like the roof, siding, and landscaping are divided between the two units, which means lower maintenance costs for you.

Duplexes often have lower property tax rates compared to single-family homes, providing additional cost savings for you as the owner.

Utilities, such as water, electricity, and heating, can potentially be shared, which could reduce costs for both households. This one may be more situational, such as owning both sides of the duplex or if you are neighbours with a trusted friend or family member and agree to split the costs. (More on this later in the blog.)

2. Flexible investment property opportunities

One of the most attractive benefits of owning a duplex is the potential to generate rental income and build equity by buying both sides of the building. With two separate living spaces under one roof, you have the flexibility to:

Live in one unit and rent the other.

By renting out the second unit, you can offset a significant portion of your mortgage payments and generate additional income.

Rent out both units

If you choose not to reside in the duplex, you can rent out both units, creating a steady stream of passive income as an investment property.

Occupy both units

For extended family members or multi-generational households that want to live together but maintain separate living areas, duplexes can be an excellent choice over sharing a single family home.

Like any real estate investment, duplexes in desirable communities, such as Wolf Willow, have the potential for appreciation over time.  As the property value increases, you can build equity, which can be leveraged for future investments or financial goals.

3. Environmental Perks

Owning a duplex in Calgary not only offers financial benefits but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. How, you ask?

Efficient Land Utilization

Duplexes create two households on a single lot, making efficient use of available land resources and minimizing urban sprawl. This compact design helps preserve green spaces and reduces the environmental impact associated with excessive land development.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

By sharing certain amenities and utilities, duplexes can lead to lower energy consumption compared to two separate single-family homes. This shared infrastructure translates into a reduced carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable living environment. So not only could you save some money (as noted above), but it’s good for the environment too!

Optimized Resource Usage

The shared walls between the two units in a duplex act as natural insulators, improving energy efficiency and reducing the overall demand for heating and cooling. This optimized resource usage not only lowers your utility costs but also minimizes the strain on natural resources.

If living a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle sounds right up your alley, a duplex could be right for you.

Duplex Builders in Wolf Willow

Wolf Willow has two primary duplex builders—Shane Homes and WestCreek Homes. Shane Homes has been building duplexes in the community since 2020, whereas WestCreek Homes joined the community in 2023.

New Shane Homes duplexes coming soon

These paired homes from Shane Homes start in the high $500s. With thoughtfully designed floorplans, 3 bed, 2.5 bath layouts are the standard here. Each home comes with top-quality finishings, space to grow, and are legal suite ready—just ask and Shane Homes will build! These duplexes are also “yell test approved” so you can live life to the fullest without disturbing your neighbours.

WestCreek Homes

Did you know WestCreek Homes builds their homes specifically for the community they’re in? Here in Wolf Willow, they’re currenting building the Garden, a unique multi-family site with a private park just for residents of those surrounding homes. Your back door connects to the park, giving you the perfect space for outdoor get togethers, safe play spaces for kids, and the chance to create a tight-knit community between neighbours. WestCreek Homes duplexes start from the high $500s, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 – 3 bathrooms.

If you’re ready to embrace the advantages of duplex living—financial savings, investment potential, and environmental sustainability—consider exploring the offerings in Wolf Willow and make your move to duplex ownership today.

Ready to move to Wolf Willow ASAP? Check out our available quick possessions.