Markham combines new-build communities, long-established neighbourhoods such as Unionville, and large business parks along Highways 404 and 7. Condominium towers have grown around Downtown Markham and Markham Centre, while many detached and semi-detached homes have finished basements, home offices and media rooms. The GO Stouffville line and Highways 404 and 407 add background noise at the edges of the city.
Many Markham homes are recent builds that meet current code minimums between units. Meeting the minimum still leaves bass, television and footsteps audible to many owners. Upgrading a wall or ceiling beyond that baseline is possible, and the cost depends on what is already behind the drywall. In long rows of townhouses the same party wall often serves several rooms, so the plan covers the whole wall, not just the spot where you hear the noise.