Does Balcony Direction Matter? Pros and Cons of Each Exposure in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley

When buying a condo or townhome in Metro Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, one detail that often gets overlooked is balcony exposure. The direction your balcony faces can have a real impact on natural light, temperature, views, and even long term comfort.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each cardinal direction to help buyers make a more informed decision.

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North Facing Balconies

Pros

    •    Cooler temperatures year round, especially in summer

    •    More consistent, indirect light without glare

    •    Often preferred by buyers who work from home or want minimal heat

    •    Great for plants that do not need direct sunlight

Cons

    •    Limited direct sunlight, especially in winter

    •    Can feel darker during Vancouver’s grey months

    •    Less appealing for buyers who prioritize sunshine

Best for: Buyers who value cooler spaces, low glare, and consistency.

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East Facing Balconies

Pros

    •    Morning sun and natural light without afternoon heat

    •    Bright early in the day, cooler in the evenings

    •    Ideal for breakfast or morning coffee

    •    Often considered a balanced exposure

Cons

    •    Little to no sun in the afternoon or evening

    •    Can feel shaded later in the day

Best for: Early risers and buyers who want light without overheating.

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South Facing Balconies

Pros

    •    Maximum sunlight throughout the day

    •    Bright interiors, especially in winter

    •    Often helps with heating costs during colder months

    •    Highly desirable for resale

Cons

    •    Can get very hot in summer

    •    More sun exposure means potential fading of furniture

    •    May require blinds or air conditioning

Best for: Buyers who love sunlight and bright living spaces.

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West Facing Balconies

Pros

    •    Afternoon and evening sun

    •    Great for sunsets and evening use

    •    Warmer feel later in the day

Cons

    •    Can be the hottest exposure in summer

    •    Glare in the evenings

    •    Higher cooling needs during heat waves

Best for: Buyers who are home in the evenings and enjoy outdoor time later in the day.

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Corner and Mixed Exposures

Many units offer corner or multiple exposures, which can provide the best of both worlds.

Pros

    •    More natural light throughout the day

    •    Better airflow and cross ventilation

    •    Often feels more open and spacious

Cons

    •    Typically priced higher

    •    Can have varying heat levels depending on layout

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Final Thoughts

There is no universally “best” balcony direction. The right choice depends on lifestyle, schedule, and personal comfort. Someone who works nights may love a west facing unit, while someone working from home might prefer north or east exposure.

When viewing properties in Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, it’s always worth stepping onto the balcony at different times of day or asking about sun patterns before making a decision.

If you have questions about how exposure affects specific buildings or neighborhoods, I’m always happy to help