Townhouse vs Condo: A Buyer’s Guide

Picture yourself house hunting. You walk into a sleek downtown condo with floor to ceiling windows and a rooftop pool. The next day, you tour a row of townhouses where kids ride bikes along the sidewalk and each home has a small patch of yard. Both feel appealing, but which one truly fits your life? Whether you’re considering condos in Houston, TX or townhouses in Quincy, MA this is where the townhouse vs condo decision begins. 

What is living in a condo like? 

Think of a condo as apartment style living that you own instead of rent. You control the space inside your walls, but hallways, lobbies, gyms, and courtyards belong to everyone in the community. Condos are often in dense urban areas or resort style complexes, which makes them perfect if you want amenities at your doorstep and less day to day maintenance.

Key points about condos: 

• Owners pay monthly fees that cover exterior maintenance and shared spaces.
• You will likely find extras such as pools, gyms, and lounges.
• Privacy is lower since you share walls, floors, or ceilings with neighbors.

Read>> What is a Condo?

What is townhouse living like? 

A townhouse feels more like a single-family home but at a lower price point. You typically get multiple stories, your own entrance, and often a small yard or patio. While you may share one or two walls, you own the structure and often times the land beneath it, which gives you more independence compared to a condo.

Key points about townhouses: 

• Owners are responsible for most upkeep including roof and siding.
• Monthly homeowner fees may be smaller or nonexistent depending on the community.
• Yards and garages are common, offering more space and privacy.

Read>> Is a Townhouse the Right Fit for You?

Which costs more? 

At first glance, condos often have lower purchase prices. However, monthly association fees can add up quickly with the national average HOA fee at $243 monthly. Townhouses usually cost more upfront but ongoing fees are smaller since you take on more maintenance yourself. Over time, the financial tradeoff comes down to whether you prefer lower maintenance and higher monthly dues or more independence and responsibility.

Who handles the maintenance? 

• Condos: The association typically manages the exterior, landscaping, and shared areas. Owners handle only the interior.
• Townhouses: Owners must budget to maintain their property inside and out, though some communities provide limited services like snow removal or lawn care.

Lifestyle fit 

Ask yourself how you like to live. Do you want to lock the door and travel without worrying about upkeep? A condo makes that simple. Do you like the idea of barbecues on your own private patio or planting a garden in your backyard? A townhouse can offer that freedom.

Resale and investment potential

Both condos and townhouses can build equity, but buyers often see townhouses appreciate faster because land ownership holds value. Condos can still be attractive investments, especially in high demand areas where buyers prioritize convenience and amenities.

Investing and renting considerations

For investors, both property types can generate rental income, but there are important differences:

• Townhouses often appeal to long term tenants who want more space, parking, or a yard. This can mean lower turnover and a more stable rental stream. Since owners sometimes control the land, they may also have more flexibility to make updates or improvements that boost rental value.
• Condos tend to attract short term tenants who prioritize amenities and location. Rental demand is strong in urban cores, but condo associations may impose strict rules about renting. Some communities limit the number of units that can be leased or require board approval, which can restrict investor flexibility.
• HOA Rules and fees directly affect profitability. High association fees cut into rental margins, while restrictive rental policies can make a unit less appealing to investors. Before buying, always review the bylaws to confirm whether short term rentals are permitted and how many units in the community are currently rented.

Which one would you choose?

Choosing between a townhouse and a condo is less about which one is better and more about which one aligns with your lifestyle. Condos shine for people who want community amenities and minimal maintenance. Townhouses are better suited to those who want extra space, privacy, and more control over their property.

FAQs: Choosing between a townhouse and condo

Is a townhouse cheaper than a condo? 

Condos often cost less to purchase, but monthly association fees can be higher. Townhouses may cost more upfront but have smaller ongoing fees since owners handle their own maintenance.

Which has lower maintenance costs? 

Condos usually have less maintenance since the association manages exterior repairs, landscaping, and common areas. Townhouse owners are responsible for their own property, both inside and outside.

Do townhouses appreciate more than condos? 

Townhouses often see stronger appreciation because owners also hold the land. Condos can still be good investments, especially in areas where demand for low maintenance living is high.

Are condo fees worth it? 

Condo fees can feel steep, but they typically cover valuable amenities like gyms, pools, and security, as well as exterior upkeep. The value depends on how much you will use the services.

Can you rent out a townhouse or a condo? 

Both can be rented, but it depends on the rules of the homeowners or condo association. Always review the community’s bylaws before purchasing if you plan to rent the property.