May 6, 2022
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What is the Difference Between a Condo and Townhome?

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If you’re searching for a new home, you may be wondering: What is the difference between a condo and a townhome? It’s a common (and important) question to understand as you consider which type of home may be right for you.

We’re breaking it down and answering some of the questions homebuyers have about condos and townhomes, including:

  • What are some of the similarities and differences between the two?
  • What do you own with a condo versus a townhome?
  • Who is responsible for exterior and common areas maintenance?
  • What types of floor plans and outdoor spaces can you expect?

Let’s take a closer look!

What is a Townhome?

A townhome, also called a townhouse, townes, rowhouse or brownstone, is a home that typically shares one or more walls with neighboring homes but has its own private entrance. Often built in rows or clusters, townhomes can offer a similar feel to single-family homes, with multiple stories and features such as garages, patios and small yards.

When you purchase a townhome, you generally own the home itself (including the interior and exterior) and the land it sits on. Townhomes are often part of a homeowners association (HOA), but maintenance responsibilities vary by community. Some HOAs may take care of landscaping or certain exterior maintenance, while in other communities, homeowners may be responsible for their own upkeep.

What is a Condo?

A condominium, or condo, is an individually owned home within a larger building or community. Rather than individually owning the building’s exterior and the land beneath your home, those areas are typically considered part of the condo community. Condos often share walls (and may share floors or ceilings) with neighboring homes. Think of it as similar to apartment-style living with the benefits of owning a home.

A condominium association typically manages common areas and certain exterior or building maintenance. This can make condos an appealing option for homebuyers looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle. Condos also come in a variety of floor plans and may include features like garages, private patios or community amenities.

Is a Townhome or Condo Right for You?

Unfortunately, there isn’t one right answer. It depends on what you want from your home and your lifestyle.

Townhomes and condos have a lot in common. Both can offer spacious floor plans, community amenities and opportunities to engage with neighbors. Depending on the home, you may find features such as first-floor primary suites, garages and flexible spaces for working from home, entertaining guests, enjoying your hobbies and more.

The biggest differences come down to what you own, how much maintenance you’re responsible for and how the community is structured. Both townhomes and condos can be great options. It’s about finding the home and lifestyle that are right for you.

Townhomes vs. Condos: At a Glance

Townhomes Condos
Typically own the home, including its interior and exterior, and the land it sits on. Typically own the individual unit, while exterior areas are generally considered common elements of the condominium.
Often built in rows or clusters with a private entrance. Often located within a larger building or community made up of individual homes.
Typically share one or more side walls with neighboring homes, without neighbors directly above or below. May share walls, floors or ceilings with neighboring homes.
Some HOAs handle landscaping or certain maintenance, while others leave more upkeep to the homeowner. The condominium association generally manages common areas and certain building maintenance.
May include a private patio or small yard. Outdoor areas may be shared by the community, although individual homes may have a private patio.
Multi-level and may include a garage. Floor plans often include many of the design features commonly found in single-family homes. Can range from one-floor to multi-level designs and may include a garage.
May include shared amenities such as pools, clubhouses and gathering spaces. May include shared amenities such as pools, clubhouses and gathering spaces.

Discover a Home That You Love

We hope we’ve made the difference between a condo and a townhome a little clearer. While the two differ in ownership, maintenance and community structure, both can offer beautiful homes, flexible floor plans, amenities and a place to feel at home.

At HHHunt Homes, our new construction townhomes and condos are designed with low-maintenance living in mind, giving you more time to enjoy your home and community. With functional floor plans and modern designs in convenient locations, you can find a home that fits how you live without the upkeep of a traditional single-family home. Ready to see what’s out there? Explore HHHunt townhomes and condos and discover a home you’ll love.

Disclaimer: Ownership, maintenance responsibilities and other details can vary by community. It’s always important to review the specific documents for a home before you purchase.
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