Wouldn’t it be nice if homes came as “one size fits all” to save you from the decision-making process? Unfortunately, you can’t try on different living spaces as you would jeans or shoes. To help out, we’ve created a list of the advantages and disadvantages of different homes.
Apartment or Condo
An apartment or condo is one unit of a larger building. The difference between them is that you rent the former and buy the latter. Deciding which option is better for you is an entirely other conversation — check out our renting vs. buying calculator for more. Regardless, both options offer some pros and cons regarding physical living space.
Advantages:
– Maintenance and repairs are covered.
– Utility bills can be lower because you may not be responsible for heat or water.
– Amenities, such as security and fitness centers, may be included.
Disadvantages:
– Privacy isn’t promised — sounds can travel through walls, floors, and ceilings.
– Parking can be a hassle if the building doesn’t have a designated garage.
– Space is limited, and a yard will be communal if it exists at all.
Townhouse
A townhouse is a house connected to others in a row, usually with space for a small front lawn or backyard.
Advantages:
– Communities are tight knit due to close quarters.
– Home Owners Association (HOA) covers maintenance through their membership fee.
– Prices are typically lower than standalone units.
Disadvantages:
– Renovations need approval from the HOA.
– Some walls are shared with neighbors, which decreases privacy.
– Space is limited, though more available than when in an apartment.
Detached House
A detached house is a single structure with its surrounding property, though it can vary in terms of architecture, size, and location.
Advantages:
– Privacy, space, and independence are at a maximum.
– Value usually increases over time, making a house’s purchase more like an investment.
– Storage space allows for more material possessions, whether for hobbies or bulk buys.
Disadvantages:
– Maintenance can be costly and time-consuming.
– Cleaning is a bigger job.
– Prices may be higher than other types of homes.
Compare your family’s needs to what’s here and you may be able to find your perfect fit!
Great guide! Thanks for sharing this much information, it’s really been enlightening for me as a hopeful first-time homebuyer because currently, I’m really torn between these three choices. I mean obviously, condos and townhouses would be the more comfortable choice financially but I think that I’ve saved up enough to make it work and get a detached home that I was able to find here. I’m just thinking it through if the advantages that come with a detached home greatly outweigh the price difference as well as the other benefits that come with other choices so thanks for listing all of those details here.
I’m glad you mentioned that one of the benefits of living in a condo is that you don’t have to worry about performing property maintenance. My wife and I are looking for a place to live while we finish out the last couple of years of college. We don’t really have time to worry about property maintenance, so it seems like it would be a good idea for us to find a condo.