Townhouse vs. Single Family Home: Pros and Cons
Homebuyers in Delaware have lots of choices when it comes to putting down roots. Today’s real estate market is brimming with attractive townhouses and spacious single-family homes. When it comes time to purchase, many buyers are faced with a tough decision, as there are advantages and potential drawbacks to each. Are you searching for a place with an ample backyard or do you prefer a home that doesn’t entail outside maintenance?
In addition to thinking about your current lifestyle and housing budget, you should also consider how those preferences and needs will change as the years pass. Both townhouses and single-family homes can be a fantastic option, but before signing any papers, it’s a good idea to look at the pros and cons of both.
Townhouses: Pros and Cons
Townhomes come in a wide range of options, but as a general rule, these dwellings will share walls, a roof or floors with neighbors. If you value having space apart from neighbors, a detached home might be a better fit for you than a townhouse. However, if you enjoy having a quiet and spacious home to relax in, combined with the sense of security and close-knit community that comes with having neighbors close by, a townhome may be your best move.
Many Delaware townhomes are built in developments, where residents are walking distance to restaurants and shopping. This is perfect if you’re looking for a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood that places a high value on convenience.
The majority of townhomes are part of a Homeowner’s Association that assumes responsibility for the landscaping and maintenance, including leaf removal, snow shoveling, grass cutting and exterior repairs. If you are not a fan of gardening or travel a lot for work, attached dwellings are lower maintenance compared to single-family homes.
If you’re the type of family that doesn’t need a lot of storage space or a huge backyard, a townhouse may be a wise investment, offering great ease of living with minimal upkeep and a nice sense of community.
Single-family homes: Pros and Cons
Single-family homes are on their own lot and do not share walls with other houses. While you may have neighbors next door or down the road, single-family homes afford privacy and seclusion. Compared to a townhouse, they tend to offer more interior and exterior square footage. If you’re planning on having more children or anticipate caring for an aging parent in the future, single-family homes offer plenty of room to grow. Most feature a spacious backyard and a bigger lawn area, which is ideal if you envision summer barbecues and entertaining outdoors.
Although single-family houses may have general neighborhood guidelines depending on the location, homeowners are not bound to many HOA rules that typically govern condos and townhomes. Detached houses require more upkeep – from mowing the lawn to painting the garage — but for many people, it’s all part of living the American dream.
Delaware communities by Montchanin
Before making such a large investment, it’s important to consider the advantages of both townhouses and single-family homes to see which is the best match for your needs, lifestyle, preferences and budget.
Montchanin Builders is proud to offer homebuyers quality new construction single-family homes and townhomes for sale in Delaware, with multiple floorplans and amenities to choose from. We invite you to take a tour of Darley Green and The Town of Whitehall to make a more informed decision. You can reach the top home builders in Delaware at Montchanin Builders by calling 302-472-7212.
Additional Resources:
- BankRate, Buy house, condo or town house as 1st home? http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/buy-house-condo-or-townhouse-1.aspx#slide=1
- SF Gate, Advantages & Disadvantages of Townhouses vs. Single Family Homes http://homeguides.sfgate.com/advantages-disadvantages-townhouses-vs-single-family-homes-43346.html
