Many buyers confuse the two. But condos and townhomes differ in ownership, maintenance, privacy, and costs. Knowing the differences can help you choose what fits your lifestyle and budget.
Condos
Private unit in a larger building or community.
Owners share walls, common spaces, and amenities.
HOA owns and maintains exteriors, plus gyms, pools, or lounges.
Typically smaller than townhomes, often in high-rises.
Lower insurance costs since only interiors are covered.
Townhomes
Multi-level single-family homes, often in rows.
Owners own both interior and exterior, plus any yard or patio.
More privacy and freedom to renovate or decorate.
HOA fees usually lower, covering limited services like landscaping.
Higher insurance costs since owners cover interior and exterior.
Ownership
Condo owners: interior only. HOA owns everything else.
Townhome owners: entire structure and land.
HOA Fees
Condos: higher, covering amenities and shared expenses.
Townhomes: lower, with fewer perks included.
Privacy & Rules
Condos: governed by strict HOA rules – pets, trash, paint colors, holiday decor.
Townhomes: fewer restrictions, more independence.
Resale Value
Townhomes typically appreciate faster and appeal to more buyers.
Condos can be harder to resell but may offer better amenities.
Why it matters: Choosing between a condo and a townhouse comes down to lifestyle. Want low-maintenance living and access to amenities? A condo may fit. Want more space, freedom, and resale value? A townhome could be the smarter choice.
Explore both options at NewHomeSource.com to see what works best for you.
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.