Bare Land vs. Conventional Condos: What’s the Difference?

Written by: Sumit Kanwar

Understanding condo ownership can be confusing, especially when comparing bare land condos with conventional condos. The distinction, however, is simpler than it seems.

A bare land condo is closer to owning a traditional home: you own the land and the structure on it. However, you are still part of a condominium corporation, meaning you share responsibility for common areas like roads, parks, or amenity buildings.

A conventional condo, by contrast, means you own everything within your unit’s walls. The building structure, common areas, and outdoor spaces are shared with other unit owners.

These differences may seem basic, but they significantly impact your rights, responsibilities, and costs as a property owner. This article breaks down each type and the potential legal implications involved in determining which kind of condominium to purchase.

What is a Bare Land Condo?

Think of a bare land condo as a hybrid between a detached home and a condo. You own your lot and whatever sits on it, but you are still governed by the condominium’s bylaws. The property lines are typically marked with survey stakes, just like in traditional homeownership.

You generally handle your own landscaping, snow removal, exterior repairs, and utility setup, although the bylaws might shift some of these duties to the condominium corporation. You also work directly with utility providers, giving you more control over service choices. One exception is waste or recycling, which is often managed by the condo board.

While you have more freedom, you are not entirely independent. The condo board enforces bylaws, manages shared areas, and helps maintain community standards. It is a balance of autonomy and shared governance.

A bare land condominium is Ideal for owners who want more control over their home and property while still benefiting from a managed community setting.

What is a Conventional Condo?

A conventional condo limits your ownership to the interior of your unit. Everything else, such as the hallways, lobbies, the roof, exterior walls, amenities, and grounds, is jointly owned and maintained through condominium fees.

These monthly fees cover building maintenance, landscaping, snow removal, and may also include utilities or insurance. The condo board oversees day-to-day operations, budgeting, and long-term planning.

This “lock-and-leave” lifestyle is popular among those who value convenience and low-maintenance living, especially in urban high-rise developments.

A conventional condominium is Ideal for buyers who prefer a more hands-off ownership experience and want access to shared amenities.

What are the Key Differences Between Bare Land and a Conventional Condo?

Pros and Cons of Bare Land and Conventional Condominiums

Understanding the Legal Implications of RPRs in Condo Purchases

The Condominium Property Act, RSA 2000, c C-22, governs condominium ownership and sets out the rights and responsibilities of condominium owners. 

When purchasing a condominium, it is essential for the lawyer to determine whether a Real Property Report (RPR) is required. An RPR, prepared by a land surveyor, illustrates the legal boundaries of a property along with the location and dimensions of any structures and/or improvements in relation to those boundaries.

This report is a critical tool in real estate transactions, as it confirms whether all structures on the property comply with applicable municipal bylaws. 

This raises an important question: When is an RPR report required in a condominium purchase?

The answer depends on the type of condominium being purchased. The only accurate way to determine the condominium type is by reviewing the condominium plan. 

If the plan contains individual lot measurements and references “monuments and posts” in the legend, it is a bare land condominium, and as such, an RPR is required.  A bare land condominium plan, though it may look like a regular single-family subdivision plan, is registered under the Condominium Property Act, RSA 2000, c C-22. 

Unlike conventional condo plans, buildings are not shown on a bare land plan. 

Therefore, lawyers should not be accepting title insurance in lieu of an RPR for bare land condominiums. 

In contrast, conventional condominiums can be purchased without an RPR, as the condominium plans for these units outline all the necessary information required to ensure compliance with municipal bylaws.

Choosing the Right Condo? A Real Estate Lawyer in Edmonton South Can Help

Choosing between bare land and a conventional condo depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you prefer to have more control and are willing to accept the extra upkeep, then a bare land condo might be right for you. In contrast, if you prefer convenience and minimal maintenance, then a conventional condo offers simplicity and shared amenities in a well-managed environment.

Feel free to contact any of our Real Estate lawyers should you have any questions or concerns surrounding your condominium ownership.