Key takeout
Townhouses are on average cheaper than single-family homes. Single-family homes offer more space and privacy, but have higher upfront costs and maintenance responsibilities. Townhouses often include HOA coverage. This reduces personal maintenance costs, but adds monthly fees and community rules. Townhouses can also be steady in valuations, but detached homes generally have a stronger resale value. Lifestyle is the most important thing. Townhouses are perfect for buyers who want affordable prices and community. On the other hand, single-family homes are suitable for those who want room for independence, customization and growth.
Are you torn between a townhouse and a detached house considering buying a house? You are not alone. These are two of the most popular options for homeowners, both bringing their own perks and trade-offs. The right choice really depends on what you value most in your daily life, your budget, and your long-term planning.
Whether you’re looking for a townhouse in Rochester, Minnesota or a detached house in Tulsa, this will help you find the perfect one for you.
What makes a townhouse unique
Townhouses are often two- or three-storey homes that share walls with neighbors on both sides. Imagine a row of houses that look similar, but each have its own entrance. Townhouses usually have ample private spaces, sometimes small gardens and patios, and are often part of a community that may share perks such as pools, fitness centres, and playgrounds. For many buyers, this appeal is the combination of affordability and convenience.
Read >>Is Townhouse suitable for you?
What you get in a detached house
A detached house stands on its own. This means there are many shared walls and indoor and outdoor spaces. You will usually find a front yard and back yard, perhaps even a garage or a driveway. This option gives you the freedom to customize your space and enjoy more privacy. Whether it means enjoying a quiet evening in your garden, playset or back porch, large households leaning towards single-family homes often leaning towards single-family homes to provide room for growth.
Compare the two options
Townhouse and detached house choices are what helps you today and what you provide the roads well.
Cost Questions
In most markets, townhouses are more budget-friendly than single-family homes. National data shows that the median townhouses are around $365,000 compared to about $439,000 for single-family homes. So, on average, townhouses are about 16-17% less expensive than single-family homes. Not only is the purchase price low, but the home is connected, which can also reduce the ongoing costs such as heating and cooling.
On the other hand, the cost of a detached house is usually more expensive, but thanks to larger lots and greater resale value, it could be a stronger long-term investment. You can use a mortgage calculator to see how numbers work within your budget.
Maintenance and responsibility
This is a big thing. Many townhouses are part of the Homeowners Association. This means that some of the external tasks like roof repairs, lawn care, and snow removal will be handled for you. You pay monthly fees for that convenience, but save you time and effort. A detached house usually places all responsibility in your hands. It means more work, but it also means getting final decisions on how everything is done. Find out more about HOA fees and what they usually cover.
Space and privacy
If you’re dreaming of a big garden, space for your pets, or less neighbors nearby, a detached house will probably feel like a better fit. The townhouse can feel a little tight, but still gives you a sense of homeownership with easy-to-management space.
>>Read your home property privacy ideas
Lifestyle and community
Townhouses often promote a strong sense of community as their neighbors live nearby and share amenities together. If you want to enjoy socializing and feel connected, this is great. Single-family homes offer something more peaceful and quiet, offering the ability to create your own retreats without worrying about community association shared walls and rules.
Resale Value and Investment Potential
When thinking about it in the long term, resale value is an important factor. Single-family homes generally retain value and are often grateful for faster speeds due to their larger lot sizes, greater privacy and flexibility in renovations. These factors tend to attract a larger pool of buyers when it’s time to sell.
Townhouses also provide a solid investment in particularly desirable urban areas and communities with strong amenities. Their appreciation can be slightly slower on average compared to single family homes, but well-maintained townhouses in high demand areas can still experience significant value growth over time.
So which one is correct for you?
If you value affordability, convenience and embedded community, Townhouses may check every box. If your dreams are privacy, spaces of expansiveness, and freedom to make your home exactly as you want, a detached house can be a better match. After all, the best choice is what you feel like fits your lifestyle both now and in the next few years.
FAQ: Which style of home is best?
Are townhouses cheaper than single-family homes?
yes. On average, townhouses are about 16-17% cheaper than single family homes nationwide.
Are townhouses as valuable as single-family homes?
Single-family homes are generally more likely to be highly valued due to their large lot sizes, but lively townhouses can also gain strong value over time.
Which home is a townhouse or detached house with low maintenance?
Townhouses are usually less maintained as many external liabilities fall under the Homeowner Association. In a detached house, the owner must manage all maintenance himself.
Which options are best for families with children and pets?
People who want a larger yard or more privacy often opt for single-family homes. However, townhouses still work well for those who want community amenities and want less maintenance.
Can I renovate my townhouse in the same way as a detached house?
Renovations of townhouses may be limited by community rules or association guidelines, while family homes usually offer more freedom in remodeling.
