What should buyers check in a tandem or high-ceiling garage in Markham?A tandem garage parks one car behind another, which lets a narrow Markham lot hold two cars inside without a wide garage door. Some homes also have tall garage ceilings that can fit a car lift or overhead storage. Before you buy, measure the length, width and ceiling height, check the door and opener clearance, and get a contractor or the lift maker to confirm the slab and ceiling suit any lift you plan.
Many newer Markham homes sit on narrow lots, so builders find creative ways to fit cars and storage inside.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, brings a tape measure to every garage showing for car-loving buyers.
Garage types compared
| Type | Daily use | Resale appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Single | One car inside | Common on townhomes |
| Tandem | Two cars, one behind the other | Good, though some buyers prefer side by side |
| Double | Two cars side by side | Widest appeal |
What to measure
- Inside length, especially for tandem garages
- Width between walls, steps and storage
- Ceiling height and clearance under the door track and opener
- Door width and height for larger vehicles
Car lifts
A residential car lift needs enough ceiling height for two vehicles plus the lift, and a concrete slab that can carry the load. Requirements vary by lift, so ask the manufacturer and a qualified installer to confirm before you count on one. Door tracks may need changes to clear the raised car.
Need room for more cars?
Michael John Lau can help you find homes with garages that fit your vehicles.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Tandem garage tips
- Park the car you use less at the back.
- Keep the side wall clear for walking past.
- Check where the door into the house sits.
Resale
Buyers value inside parking, but many still prefer a side-by-side double garage. A clean, well-lit tandem garage with good storage shows best. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you offer.
The right garage is the one that fits the way you actually park. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tandem garage?
A garage where one car parks behind the other.
Is a tandem garage a true two-car garage?
It holds two cars, but not side by side.
Can I put a car lift in a Markham garage?
Possibly, if the ceiling and slab suit the lift. Confirm with the maker and an installer.
Do tandem garages hurt resale?
Some buyers prefer side-by-side garages, but inside parking is still valued.
What should I measure in a garage?
Length, width, ceiling height, door size and opener clearance.
Does a car lift need a permit?
Ask the City and installer, since electrical or structural work may be involved.
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. General buyer guidance. Car lift requirements vary by manufacturer; confirm slab and ceiling specifications with the lift maker and a qualified installer. 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.
