1. Differences Between Condos and Townhomes

2. At one time, a family's only choice for housing was a single-family dwelling with a small yard. However, there are many different choices, styles and variables for today's family to consider. Options range from single-family homes to three-story townhomes and everything in between. Purchasing a condo or townhome is an option many families consider today, but people are often unaware of important differences between the two choices. Perhaps the most confusing part about buying a townhome or condominium is what ownership entails with these popular kinds of properties. Where you live affects your quality of life, and the wrong choice can cause regret for years to come.

3. Condominiums Condominiums, also called condos, allow a person the opportunity to own living space without the worry of property maintenance. Condo owners are required to join a homeowners' association, which represents the community, collects monthly fees and manages the grounds. Developers of condos typically build several large complexes per community, with each complex housing about four to six condos and one common entrance to the building. The condominium owner owns the individual unit they live in, plus a percentage of the surrounding property. Oftentimes, a master deed is drawn up for each complex, dividing community property into individual sections for each condo owner. Owners share common walls when built side by side and ceilings when built on top of one another.

4. Townhomes Townhomes, which were once called row houses, are now commonly called townhomes or townhouses. Townhomes are often built side by side and share a common wall, but each townhome has its own roof. Upon purchasing a townhome, you become owner of the home itself, as well as the property beneath the townhouse. Oftentimes, the home has its own private entrance and includes a porch, patio or small yard for outside space. Because of increased requests for community settings, some townhome developers have added community areas, such as playgrounds, walking trails and garden areas for townhome residents. Townhomes usually have more than one level and may include a basement, utility room or garage on the bottom level. Many people prefer new townhouses calgary , because they allow for a more private way of living while still being a part of a community.

5. Community Living Living in a condo or townhome can be a good option, depending on your family's needs. Some people feel that community living creates a more secure environment and deters theft because of the close proximity to other houses or condos. Others feel that having so many dwellings next to each other makes it harder to monitor who comes and goes, resulting in a greater risk for theft and other kinds of mischief. This is where a condominium association or townhome association can be a great asset to your property. By enforcing a list of preapproved rules, your homeowners' association can govern things like designated parking areas, crime watches and the upkeep of common areas to make a safer community. Likewise, homeowner associations sometimes incur rules that property owners do not agree with.