Moving Up: How to Upsize from a Condo or Townhouse to a Detached Home with a Rental Suite

Are you thinking about upsizing from a condo or townhouse to a detached home with a rental suite? This is a smart move for many homeowners looking to gain more space, privacy, and a secondary income stream. But making the jump from strata living to detached homeownership comes with unique challenges and opportunities.

As a real estate expert in South Surrey & White Rock, I, Omeed Ghafori, have helped many homeowners successfully transition to larger homes that not only meet their growing needs but also provide financial benefits. Here’s what you need to know before making your move.

1. Why Upsizing to a Detached Home with a Rental Suite Makes Sense

🏡 More Space & Privacy: Say goodbye to shared walls and hello to a backyard, garage, and extra living space.

💰 Rental Income Helps with the Mortgage: A basement or coach house suite can generate $1,500 – $3,000+ per month in rental income, making homeownership more affordable.

📈 Stronger Long-Term Investment: Detached homes often appreciate more over time than condos or townhouses, providing better equity growth.

🔄 Escape Strata Rules & Fees: No more restrictive bylaws, special levies, or monthly strata fees cutting into your budget.

2. What to Consider Before Upsizing

✅ Your Budget & Financing

• Detached homes come with higher costs—property taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

• Get pre-approved for a mortgage and explore options that factor in potential rental income.

✅ Location & Neighborhood

• Look for areas with high rental demand (near transit, schools, and shopping).

• Research zoning rules—some areas allow legal suites, while others have restrictions.

✅ Suite Potential & Rental Regulations

• Is the suite legal or unauthorized? Each has pros and cons.

• Check local bylaws for rental restrictions, parking rules, and separate utility meters.

✅ Home Inspection & Condition

• Older homes with suites may require updates for safety and compliance.

• Consider costs for separate entrances, soundproofing, and proper ventilation.

3. Selling Your Condo or Townhouse for Top Dollar

Before making the move, you’ll need to sell your current condo or townhouse at the best possible price. Here’s how:

🚀 Price It Right: The market for condos and townhouses fluctuates—an experienced agent (like me!) will ensure you price it to sell quickly and competitively.

🏠 Stage for Maximum Appeal: Declutter, deep clean, and highlight open-concept living spaces to attract buyers.

📣 Marketing That Works: Professional photography, virtual tours, and targeted digital marketing will get your home in front of serious buyers.

📅 Timing Matters: If possible, align your sale with peak market conditions to maximize your return and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

4. Finding the Right Detached Home with a Rental Suite

When searching for the perfect upsized home, keep these factors in mind:

🏡 Legal vs. Unauthorized Suites: A legal suite is fully permitted, while an unauthorized suite may require upgrades to meet city codes.

💡 Separate Entrances & Utilities: Ideal rental suites have private entrances, dedicated laundry, and separate meters for tenant independence.

📍 Proximity to Schools & Transit: Homes near universities, bus routes, or major employers attract high-quality tenants.

🔍 Future Growth & Appreciation: Choose areas with strong resale value and increasing demand for rental properties.

5. The Upsizing Timeline: How to Plan Your Move

📆 Step 1: Get Your Condo/Townhouse Ready for Sale (1-2 Months)

• Meet with a realtor (call Omeed Ghafori!) for a market evaluation.

• Declutter, stage, and prep for listing.

📆 Step 2: List & Sell Your Home (2-4 Weeks)

• Launch marketing campaign & schedule showings.

• Negotiate offers & set your closing date.

📆 Step 3: Find & Secure Your Detached Home (1-3 Months)

• Identify top properties, book showings, and make an offer.

• Arrange financing & inspections.

📆 Step 4: Move & Set Up Your Rental Suite (2-4 Weeks)

• Transition smoothly into your new home.

• Advertise & screen potential tenants.

6. Ready to Upsize? Let’s Make It Happen!

Making the move from a condo or townhouse to a detached home with a rental suite is one of the smartest real estate decisions you can make—if done correctly.

📞 Call or text me, Omeed Ghafori, at 778-316-7506 for expert guidance and a smooth transition into your dream home.

🌍 Visit www.OmeedGhafori.com to start your home search today!

🚀 Let’s find your perfect upsized home—together!