Which condo amenities are worth paying for in Markham?The amenities most buyers use every day are usually worth paying for: secure parking, a locker, a concierge or secure package room, a well-kept gym and EV charging access. Pools, spas, theatres and large party rooms can be enjoyable but tend to cost more to run and repair, which shows up in condo fees and the reserve fund. Before you buy, compare fees per square foot across buildings and check the status certificate and reserve fund study for upcoming amenity repairs.
Two Markham condos at the same price can have very different monthly fees, and amenities are a big reason why. The question is which ones you will actually use.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps condo buyers weigh amenities against the fees they add, using each building’s documents.
Usually worth it
| Amenity | Why it adds value |
|---|---|
| Owned parking spot | Daily use and resale appeal |
| Locker | Storage most units lack |
| Concierge or secure package room | Security and deliveries |
| Gym | Saves a membership if you use it |
| EV charging access | Growing demand from buyers |
| Guest suite | Useful for visiting family, often pay-per-use |
Often costly to run
| Amenity | Why it can raise costs |
|---|---|
| Indoor pool and hot tub | Heating, staffing, water treatment and major repairs |
| Spa, sauna, steam room | Maintenance and moisture damage |
| Theatre and games rooms | Equipment replacement and low use |
| Rooftop terraces | Waterproofing and furniture replacement |
These are not bad features. Just make sure you will use them enough to justify the cost.
Comparing Markham condo buildings?
Michael John Lau can compare fees, amenities and reserve funds across buildings on your list.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Check the documents
- Status certificate: current fees, planned increases and special assessments.
- Reserve fund study: when the pool, elevators, roof and garage need major work.
- Budget: how much goes to amenities, staffing and utilities.
- Rules: amenity hours, booking and guest limits.
See how to spot an underrated Markham condo building.
Fees and your mortgage
Lenders include 50% of condo fees when they calculate how much you qualify for, so higher fees can reduce your borrowing power. Compare fees per square foot rather than total fees, and ask what the fee covers, such as heat, water or hydro.
Resale
Buyers notice both amenities and fees. Well-kept, practical amenities support resale, while high fees for little-used features can narrow the buyer pool. In September 2026, Markham condo apartments averaged $574,612, according to TRREB, so monthly costs often decide which unit a buyer chooses.
Before you buy
- List the amenities you will use weekly.
- Compare fees per square foot across buildings.
- Review the status certificate and reserve fund study with your lawyer.
- Tour the amenities at a busy time.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you choose a building.
Pay for the amenities you will use, not the ones that only look good in photos. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Which condo amenities are worth paying for?
Parking, a locker, concierge or package security, a gym and EV charging access are often the most useful.
Do pools raise condo fees?
Often. Pools cost more to heat, staff and repair.
How do I compare condo fees?
Compare fees per square foot and check what utilities the fee covers.
Do condo fees affect my mortgage approval?
Yes. Lenders include 50% of condo fees in their calculations.
What document shows future amenity repairs?
The reserve fund study, summarized in the status certificate.
Do amenities help resale?
Practical, well-kept amenities help; high fees for little-used features can hurt.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Condo prices are from TRREB Market Watch (September 2026). The 50% condo fee rule is from CMHC. Amenity cost patterns are general. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
