Forget fancy tech gadgets or ultra-modern interiors—what Canadians really want in their dream homes in 2025 is simple: a great backyard.
According to Wahi’s 2025 What Homeseekers Want survey, conducted with Angus Reid, 81 per cent of Canadians say a backyard is “important” or “very important” if they were looking for a new home today.
But beyond Canadians’ love affair with outdoor space, the findings reveal deeper shifts in housing preferences, influenced by affordability pressures and changing demographics.
The results “don’t just tell us about what kind of homes Canadians prefer, they also speak to underlying demographic trends and, in some cases, affordability issues,” says Wahi CEO Benjy Katchen.
Separate entrances gaining popularity in costly markets
One of the standout trends is the increasing demand for homes with separate entrances, particularly in Canada’s priciest provinces. A separate entrance is notably important to respondents in British Columbia (27 per cent) and Ontario (20 per cent).
“This suggests that Canadians in pricier housing markets are looking for homes with potential rental income to help offset the cost of ownership,” notes Katchen.
Single-family homes still reign supreme—but condos have appeal
Asked to choose what type of home they would prefer today, a solid majority (61 per cent) favour a single-family home, while roughly one-quarter (24 per cent) would opt for a condo or apartment. The remaining respondents were either unsure or looking at alternative housing types.
While both groups share a preference for renovated kitchens and bathrooms, their other priorities differ significantly.
Single-family buyers prioritize space and comfort
For Canadians set on single-family homes—be it detached, semi-detached, or townhomes—a backyard remains the number one must-have, chosen by 76 per cent of respondents. Coming in a strong second was a renovated kitchen or bathroom.
Other features single-family seekers prioritize are finished basements, along with parking garages and bungalow-style layouts.
Condo seekers focused on amenities and convenience
On the other hand, condo buyers and renters rank renovated kitchens and bathrooms even higher at 68 per cent. They also value practical amenities like parking garages and visitor parking. Unlike single-family home buyers, condo seekers placed importance on high-end appliances and scenic views.
Quiet and affordability shape Canadian preferences
Aside from home features, Canadians were asked what factors influenced their housing choices over the last two years. While affordability topped the list—40 per cent cited rising home prices or rental costs—the desire for quiet and more outdoor space are notable motivators.
Lifestyle, age and gender shape preferences too
Digging deeper, the survey also highlights how age, lifestyle, and gender shape housing wants:
- Households with children are far more likely to want mudrooms (51 per cent) and entertainment rooms (47 per cent).
- Men (48 per cent) are significantly more likely than women (30 per cent) to prioritize an entertainment room.
- Older Canadians highly value scenic views and bungalow-style homes, with 68 per cent of baby boomers and 52 per cent of Gen X respondents citing bungalows as an important feature. In contrast, just 28 per cent of millennials and 13 per cent of Gen Z expressed the same interest.
