Front Attached vs. Rear Detached: Which is Better?


August 30, 2023

Front Attached vs. Rear Detached: Which is Better? Apex Model - Featured Image

When it comes to choosing a home design, there are many options to consider. One of the most common choices is between a front attached or rear detached garage. But which is the best choice for you?

Whether you choose a front attached or rear detached garage, both options have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider your needs and lifestyle when deciding which option is best for you and your family.

What’s The Difference Between a Front Attached and Rear Detached Home?

Front attached homes have a garage space that is located in the front of the house, while rear detached garages are typically separated from the home and found behind it, with back alley access.ย 

The main differences between these two types of garages are how theyโ€™re accessed and how they affect the look of the home. Front attached garages offer convenience when it comes to parking cars or accessing stored items, as they are easily accessible from the front of the house. Rear detached garages require a bit more effort to access, as you have to walk from the back of your house. However, the trade-off is that you get a more โ€˜traditionalโ€™ looking home.

Apex Easton model

What are the Benefits of a Front Attached Garage Home?

Front-attached garages are a popular choice for many Edmonton homeowners and for good reason.ย 

A front attached garage is a great way to maximize your outdoor living space. With a laned home, you will have to sacrifice some of your backyard to make room for a detached garage in the back of the house. With a front attached garage, you can keep your yard intact and still have a place to store your car and other items.

A front-attached garage also provides extra convenience and security. With a rear attached garage, youโ€™ll have to walk outside the house to access it, whereas with a front attached garage, you have direct access from the street or from inside the home. This makes it easier to store items safely and securely, as well as making it more convenient for you and your family.

Overall, front attached garages provide a great option for Edmonton homeowners looking to maximize their storage space and increase convenience and security.ย 

Sansa McConachie model

What are the Benefits of a Rear Detached Garage Home?

However, rear detached garages offer a variety of benefits that may make them the better choice for many homeowners.

For starters, a rear detached garage is an excellent option for laned homes. This type of home is built on a narrower lot with the garage located in the back of the house. The advantage of this setup is that it allows for a larger front yard and more curb appeal, as opposed to a front attached garage. Rear-lane townhomes are a great example of this.

Another benefit of a rear detached garage? It can easily be converted into a separate garage suite. This can be a great way to both increase the value of your home and provide additional rental income or have a separate living area for a relative. With a rear detached garage, youโ€™ll have more freedom to design the space however you want, such as adding a kitchenette or other amenities to create a comfortable living space for tenants.

Some home buyers also prefer the more โ€˜traditionalโ€™ home look, with a large front porch or yard. A rear-detached garage home is an ideal choice in this case, as it allows the garage to be hidden from view behind the home.

Finally, a rear detached garage also offers more flexibility when it comes to parking. Since the garage is located in the back, itโ€™s easier to access and provides more space for parking. This is ideal for homeowners who need to park multiple cars or have a larger vehicle.

Showhome community image

Community Style Considerations

The type of garage often depends on the community’s regulations and standards for home construction. For instance, in some neighbourhoods, a front attached garage may not be allowed on a street with laned homes due to aesthetic considerations and the desire to maintain a consistent streetscape. Conversely, in certain areas, there may be designated zones for different types of homes, allowing for more flexibility in garage options based on personal preference.

In general, newly developed Edmonton communities boast a diverse range of architectural styles, catering to various tastes and preferences. This includes a mix of modern designs, traditional aesthetics, and even contemporary interpretations of classic styles. These communities strive to create a visually appealing and harmonious environment, where each home contributes to the overall charm and character of the neighborhood.

On the other hand, infill communities, where new homes are constructed in older, established neighbourhoods, often have different requirements when it comes to garages. In these areas, detached garages tend to be favoured. This is either to reflect the architectural style and design sensibilities of the past or simply to save on space. This approach not only preserves the historical integrity of the neighbourhood but also adds a touch of nostalgia and charm to the area.

Ultimately, the availability and design of garages in a community are influenced by a combination of factors, including local regulations, community standards, architectural preferences, and the desire to create a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

Think About Your Lot Sizeย 

The availability of front attached or rear detached garages is influenced by both the community you choose and the lot options available. When considering a home with a front attached garage, it’s important to note these homes are typically wider to accommodate both the garage and the traditional front entryway. However, if you have a long, narrow lot, these homes may not be the best fit.ย 

In such cases, a home with a rear detached garage might be a better option, as it allows for more flexibility in terms of lot dimensions. If you’re unsure about which type of home would work best on your chosen lot, itโ€™s always advisable to consult with your builder, who can provide you with expert guidance and recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.

If youโ€™re searching for the perfect home in Edmonton, itโ€™s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of front-attached and rear-detached homes. Think about your budget, lifestyle, needs, community regulations, lot size, and architectural preferences. Then decide which type of home makes the most sense for you. Whether youโ€™re drawn to the convenience of front attached or appreciate the extra privacy that a rear detached home can offer, thereโ€™s sure to be something perfect out there waiting for you.ย 

So donโ€™t wait another minute โ€” call Sterling Homes now to start exploring all of your options for unbeatable real estate in Edmonton. With a broad selection of front-attached and rear-detached home designs available, Sterling Homes has something great for everyone!

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