Living in Downtown Halifax

By Tom Moore, Halifax REALTOR® with eXp Realty

Downtown Halifax is built for people who want to step outside and be in the middle of it all. Restaurants, the waterfront boardwalk, Spring Garden Road, nightlife and culture are all within a few blocks, with Citadel Hill overlooking it all.

Here's the honest picture: what you get, what you give up and what living downtown really looks like.

Best for: walkability, low-maintenance living and convenience over square footage.

Pro: everything is walkable. Groceries, restaurants, the waterfront and work are often a short walk away, and a car becomes optional for a lot of people.

Pro: low-maintenance living. Most homes downtown are modern condos, so there's no lawn to mow or roof to replace.

Con: less space for the money. You trade yard space and square footage for location. For a lot of buyers that trade is an easy yes, but it is a trade.

Con: condo fees and noise. Monthly fees add to your carrying costs, and busy streets mean more activity at night. Check the fees and the condo's finances before you buy.

Downtown is mostly condos, from older buildings to new towers, with a smaller number of townhouses and heritage properties. Prices depend heavily on the building, the view, parking and the condo fees.

When you compare condos, look at the full monthly cost (mortgage, condo fees and property tax), not just the list price. I can help you compare buildings and review condo documents. For HRM-wide numbers, see my Halifax market hub.

Keep reading: Downtown Halifax vs the suburbs · Condo vs house in Halifax · Living in the South End · Living in Halifax: the complete guide

Thinking about a downtown condo? Book a free call with me or call 902-440-1639.

About Tom Moore

Tom Moore is a Halifax REALTOR® with eXp Realty with 70+ homes sold across HRM. He works with buyers, sellers and families relocating to Nova Scotia, and he works just as hard for you as he would for a friend.