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.
6. 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.
