If you're looking to buy a condo in Ottawa, you might have come across the term freehold condominium and wondered how it’s different from a “regular” or traditional condo. Understanding this difference can affect not just your purchase, but your lifestyle, responsibilities, and future resale value.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Traditional Condo?
A traditional condo, also known as a standard condominium, is the most common type of ownership you’ll see in Ottawa buildings like Claridge Plaza, The Mondrian, or The Gotham.
When you buy a traditional condo, you own your individual unit—usually defined by the interior walls—and share ownership of common elements like:
The lobby
Elevators
Gym
Hallways
Exterior walls
Roof and more
You pay monthly condo fees to cover the upkeep of these shared areas, plus building insurance, a reserve fund, and often heat and water.
This is what most people think of when they picture “condo living”—low maintenance, with an on-site property manager and shared amenities.
What Is a Freehold Condo?
A freehold condo—also called a common elements condominium—offers something a little different.
You own the land and structure of your unit (often a townhouse or bungalow), but you also share ownership of certain common elements with your neighbours. This could include:
A private road
Shared driveways
Visitor parking
Landscaping or snow removal services
The difference? You won’t own the common land, but you’ll have a Parcel of Tied Land (POTL) that connects your freehold property to the shared components. You’ll pay a small monthly fee to cover upkeep of those shared services.
It’s condo-style living without the shared hallways or elevators.
These are more common in newer suburban developments, like in Barrhaven, Stittsville, or Orléans, and they offer a great middle ground between freehold and condo living.
Freehold vs. Traditional Condo: Key Differences
What You Own
Traditional Condo: You own the interior of your unit (walls inward).
Freehold Condo: You own the entire structure and the land your home sits on.
Shared Elements
Traditional Condo: Common areas like the lobby, elevators, roof, and exterior walls.
Freehold Condo: Limited shared features like private roads, driveways, and visitor parking.
Condo Fees
Traditional Condo: Usually higher, since they cover more services like building maintenance, insurance, and utilities.
Freehold Condo: Typically lower, only covering shared elements like snow removal or road maintenance.
Maintenance Responsibilities
Traditional Condo: Most upkeep (including exterior work) is handled by the condo corporation.
Freehold Condo: You're responsible for your own unit’s exterior and yard upkeep.
Lifestyle & Layout
Traditional Condo: Often apartment-style or loft living with shared indoor spaces.
Freehold Condo: Feels more like a townhouse or detached home with added convenience.
Which One Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I want minimal upkeep? Traditional condos might be your best bet.
Do I want a yard, garage, or more space? A freehold condo gives you more flexibility.
Do I mind paying higher monthly fees for convenience? That’s the tradeoff with a traditional condo.
Do I want to avoid shared indoor spaces? Freehold condos have less interaction with neighbours.
If you're someone who loves the look of a freehold home but hates shovelling snow or paving driveways, a freehold condo might feel like a perfect compromise.
Are Freehold Condos a Good Investment in Ottawa?
Freehold condos can be a smart investment, especially in suburban growth areas where demand for low-maintenance housing with more space is rising. They're also appealing to:
Downsizers who don’t want a full house anymore
Young professionals who want modern finishes but a more private feel
Investors looking for easier tenant management
However, traditional condos in the downtown core—like in Centretown, Sandy Hill, or ByWard Market—still tend to offer stronger appreciation if location is your #1 priority.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're buying your first condo in Ottawa or looking to downsize, understanding the difference between freehold and traditional condos can save you from surprise fees, responsibilities, or lifestyle mismatches.
Still unsure? That’s what we’re here for. At New Purveyors, we specialize in helping Ottawa condo buyers and sellers navigate these choices with clarity. Reach out anytime—we’ll help you find the right fit, no matter your goals.
