Are you interested in purchasing a townhouse over a traditional home? Before making this decision, it’s essential to know the key differences between the two. Knowing the disadvantages and advantages will help you make an informed and confident decision for you and anyone else moving with you.
What Is a Townhouse?
A townhouse is quite different from a regular house. These differences are most noticeable in terms of the home’s layout and square footage. Townhouses tend to be much smaller and more narrow. They usually have multiple stories and are attached to anywhere from one to several other townhomes. These townhomes are separated from each other on the inside, but they share the same exterior walls.
Another feature that distinguishes townhouses from traditional homes is that townhouses are usually governed by a homeowner’s association of some sort. So while you technically own the home, you may need to pay association fees and ask for the association’s approval before doing any renovations.
Why Purchase a Townhouse?
While you do lose a level of autonomy, having a homeowner’s association there to take care of repairs and some maintenance tasks is quite convenient. The association may even take care of lawns and landscaping for you. This sort of low-maintenance housing is appealing to older couples, as a townhouse requires less physical labour. Townhouses are also popular among first-time homebuyers who aren’t ready to fully commit to proper homeownership.
The Disadvantages of a Townhouse
As stated above, even painting a wall inside or outside your townhome will require approval from the homeowner’s association, which very well may reject your request. Your association fees can also be quite costly, especially for townhouses that require a lot of maintenance.
Townhouses are also less private and can be a lot nosier. Either one or both of your exterior walls will be directly attached to your neighbour’s home, which could be bothersome.
Should You Purchase a Home Instead?
There are many advantages to opting for a traditional home over a townhouse. When shopping for homes, you’ll find much more variety in terms of price, style, and location. You’ll also fully own your home, meaning you can do whatever renovations you want (barring cases where major construction projects could affect the community at large). Unlike with a townhouse, however, all maintenance and repair needs are your responsibility.
Homes also tend to offer more privacy and much more space. Townhouses can become a bit claustrophobic for some, while larger homes provide a sense of peace and relaxation. You also have more freedom regarding the furniture you can purchase and fit into your home.
Though there are advantages to living in a townhouse, the benefits of a larger house seem to outweigh those advantages for most buyers. At the end of the day, your decision should be based on your lifestyle, desired location, budget, and the number of people in your household.
We’ll Help You Find the Right Home for You
When you hire an experienced and qualified realtor, you’ll have a selection of amazing houses to visit, curated for you and your specific preferences. In addition, a real estate agent has the negotiating skills and market knowledge necessary to ensure that you find your dream home at a price you’re comfortable with.
If you’re interested in having one of our talented realtors assist you, please reach out at your next convenience. We look forward to hearing from you.
