Live/Work Townhomes: Why They’re the Perfect Solution for Entrepreneurs

Running your own business comes with enough challenges, your space shouldn’t be one of them. That’s where live/work townhomes come in. These unique properties combine residential living with a commercial storefront or dedicated workspace, allowing you to live upstairs and work downstairs. For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners, this can be a game-changer.

What Is a Live/Work Townhome?

A live/work townhome is a property designed with two purposes in mind:

• Residential Living – Typically featuring multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and a full kitchen upstairs for comfortable family life.
• Commercial or Office Space – A ground-level storefront or flexible space, often with its own bathroom and entrance, zoned for business use.

In Greater Vancouver, these units are particularly popular in growing communities like Clayton Heights (Surrey) and Willoughby (Langley), where zoning supports small, street-front businesses.

Key Benefits for Entrepreneurs

1. Save Money on Rent

Commercial lease rates in Vancouver can be expensive. Owning a live/work townhome means you can avoid paying separate rent for a retail space or office, potentially saving thousands every year.

2. Enjoy Work-Life Convenience

Cut your commute to zero. Step downstairs in the morning to open your business, and step back upstairs at night to relax with family. This is ideal for entrepreneurs who value time and flexibility.

3. Build Equity in Your Business and Home

Rather than paying rent to a landlord, you are building equity in a property that can appreciate over time—helping grow both your net worth and your business value.

4. Attract Foot Traffic with a Storefront

Having a visible location facing a main street (like 72nd Avenue in Clayton) can be a huge marketing advantage, especially for service-based businesses like:

• Hair salons and nail studios
• Coffee shops or bakeries (where zoning allows)
• Professional offices (consultants, realtors, therapists)
• E-commerce showrooms or pick-up points

5. Flexible Use for Future Resale

Live/work townhomes appeal to investors and business owners alike, giving you flexibility to sell later at a premium or rent out the commercial portion for income.

Tax Benefits of Using Part of Your Home for Business

Owning a live/work townhome also opens the door to home-based business tax deductions in Canada, provided the space is used to earn business income. Here are a few key deductions:

Home Office or Workspace Expenses

You may be able to claim a portion of:

• Mortgage interest or rent (if applicable)
• Property taxes
• Home insurance
• Utilities (electricity, heat, water)
• Maintenance and repairs

The claimable amount is typically based on the percentage of square footage used exclusively for business.

Capital Cost Allowance (CCA)

For owned properties, you may claim depreciation (CCA) on the business-use portion of your home. Careful planning is needed here, as this can affect the capital gains exemption when selling, so always consult a tax professional.

Business Expenses

Regular expenses such as internet, phone, supplies, and marketing costs remain deductible, just like with any other business.

GST/HST Input Tax Credits

If you are GST/HST registered, you may be able to claim input tax credits on the business-use portion of expenses related to your live/work space.

Tip: Always keep detailed records and work with a CPA or tax advisor to ensure you maximize deductions while staying compliant with CRA guidelines.

Who Should Consider a Live/Work Townhome?

Live/work townhomes are perfect for:

• Service providers: estheticians, stylists, consultants
• Creative professionals: designers, artists, photographers
• E-commerce businesses needing inventory space and a shipping station
• Start-ups looking for a professional address without high overhead costs

Market Outlook for Live/Work Properties

As remote work and small business growth continue, demand for flexible live/work properties is increasing. In communities like Surrey’s Clayton Heights and Langley’s Willoughby, there are only a handful of strata-approved storefront units, making them highly desirable and resilient to market shifts.

Conclusion

A live/work townhome isn’t just a place to live, it’s an investment in your business, lifestyle, and financial future. By combining convenience, cost savings, and tax advantages, these properties make entrepreneurship more accessible and sustainable.

Ready to explore live/work townhomes in Greater Vancouver?
Contact Aminie Realty today for a curated list of available properties, private tours, and guidance on zoning, financing, and tax considerations.