Housing options for anyone typically boil down to three - buying a house, a condo or renting a place. It depends on where you are in your life, who you are buying it for and what your lifestyle is. There is no one-size-fits-all. What is good for one may not be good for another person. However, condos are fast becoming immensely popular for all kinds of buyers. The real estate market statistics clearly show a higher percentage of buyers in the condo arena. So what are the factors that are tipping the scales in favour of condos? Let us ponder on the five main reasons to buy a condo. 1.Minimum Maintenance Condos require minimum upkeep and zero maintenance on the exteriors. As a house owner, all your free time goes into mowing lawns, cutting hedges, painting, shovelling snow or clearing leaves. Condo owners don't have any such chores and can relax on weekends, hang out at the pool or party on the terrace. Moreover, most people do not have the time or the energy to do all that maintenance stuff. It may be due to a busy career, a small baby, recuperating or lifestyle options. There is so much one can do in one free time. Compared to owning a house, it is a much more practical option. 2.A profitable investment in the current scenario Investing in a condo in Toronto, Mississauga and nearby cities has invariably proved profitable for owners. It can also become a source of monthly income. Renting townhouses is much more cumbersome comparatively because considerable maintenance is required for their upkeep. Of course, those that don't want the upkeep headaches associated with a house could always rent an apartment. The problem with an apartment is that it often feels like money is being 'thrown away' as you pay your rent and effectively help your landlord buy a piece of real estate. With a condo, you can still buy the place in which you live while still enjoying the same conveniences offered by an apartment.