When you're shopping for a condo in Ottawa, it's easy to focus on the layout, finishes and monthly condo fees.
But there's another feature that can have a surprisingly big impact on your day-to-day life—and even your home's resale value: parking.
Some condos include underground parking, others offer surface parking, and some don't include parking at all.
So is underground parking actually worth paying extra for?
For many buyers, the answer is yes—but it depends on your lifestyle and long-term plans.
The Biggest Advantage: Ottawa Winters
Let's start with the obvious one.
Anyone who's lived through an Ottawa winter knows the value of getting into a warm, snow-free vehicle.
With underground parking, you don't have to:
Brush snow off your windshield before work.
Scrape ice on freezing mornings.
Dig your car out after a major snowfall.
Worry as much about extreme cold affecting your battery.
It's a convenience you'll appreciate for several months of the year.
Better Protection for Your Vehicle
Keeping your vehicle indoors also protects it from the elements.
While cars are built to handle Canadian winters, underground parking can reduce exposure to:
Snow and ice buildup.
UV damage during the summer.
Hail and heavy storms.
Tree sap and bird droppings.
Road salt sitting on your vehicle after a commute.
Over time, that extra protection can help preserve your vehicle's condition.
Security Matters
Every building is different, but underground parking is often located behind controlled-access doors and monitored by security cameras.
While no parking area is completely immune to theft or vandalism, many buyers appreciate the added peace of mind that comes with restricted access.
Resale Value Can Benefit
Not every condo buyer owns a vehicle.
However, many do—and parking can become an important deciding factor when comparing similar units.
In neighbourhoods where street parking is limited or heavily regulated, a deeded underground parking space may make your property more attractive to future buyers.
That doesn't necessarily mean you'll recover every dollar you paid for it, but it can improve marketability when it's time to sell.
When Surface Parking May Be Perfectly Fine
Underground parking isn't the right choice for everyone.
Surface parking can make sense if:
You rarely drive.
You're trying to keep your purchase price lower.
The parking lot is close to your entrance.
You don't mind clearing snow during the winter.
You're purchasing in a suburban community where parking is plentiful.
For many buyers, surface parking works perfectly well.
What If the Condo Doesn't Include Parking?
Some condo buildings—particularly in highly walkable neighbourhoods—offer units without parking.
That may be a good fit if you:
Work remotely.
Primarily use public transit.
Walk or cycle for most errands.
Don't currently own a vehicle.
On the other hand, if you think you'll eventually need a car, it's worth researching whether additional parking spaces can be purchased or rented within the building.
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
Not all parking spaces are created equal.
Before purchasing a condo, consider asking:
Is the parking space owned or exclusive-use?
Is it underground or surface?
Is it heated?
Can owners install EV chargers?
Are visitor parking spaces available?
Can the parking space be rented separately?
Is there additional monthly maintenance for parking?
These questions can help you understand both the convenience and the long-term value of the parking space.
The Bottom Line
Underground parking isn't essential for every condo buyer, but in Ottawa's climate, it's a feature many owners quickly grow to appreciate.
If you're comparing two otherwise similar condos, parking is one of those details that's easy to overlook during a showing—but difficult to ignore after you've moved in.
At New Purveyors, we help buyers look beyond finishes and staging to compare the features that can make the biggest difference in everyday condo living.
