Condos, Townhomes, Single Family Homes- what's right for you?

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make—and it’s not just about location and price. The type of home you choose will shape your lifestyle, responsibilities, and even your monthly expenses.

So, how do you know whether a condo, townhome, or single-family home is the right fit for you?

Let’s break it down so you can feel confident about your next move.

What Is a Condo?

A condominium, or condo, is a private unit within a larger building or community. You own the interior of your unit, but everything else—the roof, exterior, landscaping, amenities—is collectively owned and maintained by a homeowners’ association (HOA).

Pros:

• Lower purchase price (in many markets)

• Little to no exterior maintenance

• Might includes amenities like common space, a pool, or security

• Great for people who want a “lock-and-leave” lifestyle

Considerations:

• Monthly HOA fees (sometimes high)

• Less privacy than other options

• Limited control over exterior or building-wide decisions

Best for: First-time buyers, busy professionals, people who travel frequently, or those who want minimal upkeep.

What Is a Townhome?

A townhome (or townhouse) is a multi-level home that shares one or two walls with neighboring units. You typically own both the interior and exterior of the home, including a small yard or patio.

Pros:

• Often more spacious than condos

• More privacy and independence

• May include a garage and small yard

• Lower HOA fees than condos (in some cases)

Considerations:

• Still some shared walls = reduced privacy

• Some maintenance required, depending on the HOA

• Not always easy to customize exterior

Best for: Buyers who want a bit more space and autonomy than a condo, but aren’t quite ready for the full responsibility of a detached home.

What Is a Single-Family Home?

A single-family home is a detached property that stands alone, with its own yard, roof, and structure. You own everything—and you're responsible for everything, too.

Pros:

• Maximum privacy and space

• Full control over landscaping and renovations

• Typically higher resale value

• No shared walls, neighbors aren’t right next door

Considerations:

• Higher purchase price

• Full responsibility for maintenance and repairs

• Larger property = more upkeep (lawn care, snow removal, etc.)

Best for: Families, long-term homeowners, people who want space to grow or personalize their home.

So… What’s Right for You?

It really comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to spend weekends doing yardwork or relaxing?

• Is privacy a top priority?

• Am I looking for a starter home, or a place to stay long-term?

• What’s my tolerance for maintenance and repairs?

If you’re still not sure, that’s totally normal. This is where a great real estate agent (that's me!) can help guide you through the decision-making process based on your unique needs.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in real estate—but understanding the differences between condos, townhomes, and single-family homes is a great place to start.

If you're curious about which type of home makes the most sense in Southern New Hampshire, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you explore your options.

Jennifer Delisle, Realtor

Luxe Living Real Estate

Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

603.490.8816

jennifer.matseas@kw.com