Condo vs House – Major Differences, Pros & Cons To Know

As an individual fully engaged in the realm of real estate, possessing extensive experience in assisting clients navigate the process of purchasing homes, I recognize the significance of making educated choices when it comes to selecting a condo or a house.

Each option comes with unique advantages, considerations, and trade-offs, so understanding these is essential for making an informed choice.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes condos and houses distinct, outline the pros and cons of each, and help you determine which option might be right for you.

Quick Summary

• Condos are generally more affordable than houses, especially in urban areas, but come with monthly HOA fees for maintenance and amenities. The house is typically higher upfront and requires the owner to pay for all maintenance and repairs, with no HOA fees but full responsibility for the property.
• Condos are ideal for those seeking urban living with access to amenities, while houses are better suited for those valuing space and privacy.
• Monthly HOA fees for condos can range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the amenities and location.
• From my experience, condos can be a great entry point for first-time buyers due to their affordability and low maintenance. However, houses often offer better long-term investment potential due to their appreciation and lack of HOA restrictions.

What Is A House?

A house is also known as a single-family house or a single-family home. It has four exterior walls not attached to any other residential structure. Houses come in various sizes, shapes, and designs, ranging from simple bungalows to multi-story mansions.

Typically, houses are situated on land that includes a front and back yard, and the homeowner also owns the land along with any additional structures, such as a detached garage or in-law unit.

In some cities, particularly in historic districts, houses may be townhouses or row houses, narrow, multi-story dwellings that share one or two walls with neighboring properties yet have their own entrance and front or backyard space.

What Is a House?

A house, also known as a single-family home, is a detached property that comes with private ownership of both the building and the land it occupies. Houses range from cozy bungalows to expansive multi-story homes and typically offer a yard, a garage, and more freedom for customization.

What Is a Condo?

A condominium (or condo) is an individual unit within a larger building or complex. Condo owners hold exclusive ownership of their unit while sharing ownership of the common areas and amenities, which are managed by a homeowners' association (HOA) [1]. Condos are popular for urban living and are generally more affordable and low-maintenance.

Condo vs. House: Key Differences

1. Cost

• Condos: Condos usually have a lower purchase price, especially in urban areas. However, owners pay monthly HOA fees, which cover the maintenance of shared spaces and amenities.
• Houses: Houses tend to have a higher purchase price and require the owner to cover all maintenance and repairs independently.

2. Insurance

• Condos: Insurance is generally lower as it only needs to cover the interior of the unit. The HOA’s policy typically covers the building’s exterior and common areas.
• Houses: Homeowners must insure the entire property, which includes the structure and any additional buildings like garages or sheds, resulting in higher insurance costs.

3. Maintenance

• Condos: HOA fees cover exterior and shared area maintenance, freeing condo owners from upkeep responsibilities. Owners are responsible only for the interior of their unit.
• Houses: Homeowners manage and pay for all property maintenance, both inside and outside. This includes landscaping, repairs, and any amenities they add.

4. Amenities

• Condos: Many condos come with amenities like pools, gyms, and lounges, which are shared among residents. These amenities are covered by the HOA fees.
• Houses: Homeowners who want similar amenities must install and maintain them independently, often at a high cost.

5. Location

• Condos: Typically found in urban areas, offering close proximity to stores, restaurants, and public transportation.
• Houses: Often located in suburban or rural areas, providing more space, privacy, and distance from city noise.

6. HOA Rules

• Condos: HOAs often impose rules on decor, renovations, and rental policies to maintain property value and community standards.
• Houses: In non-HOA neighborhoods, homeowners enjoy more freedom in modifying their property. In HOA communities, some restrictions may still apply, but they tend to be less restrictive than condo HOAs.

7. Selling

• Condos: Selling a condo involves adhering to HOA regulations, which may require up-to-date dues and board approval for the buyer.
• Houses: Selling a house is typically more straightforward, with fewer restrictions, which can make the process faster and less complicated.

Pros & Cons of Condo Ownership

Pros:

1. Affordability: Condos are typically more budget-friendly for first-time buyers or those downsizing.
2. Low Maintenance: With exterior maintenance covered by the HOA, condo living requires less upkeep.
3. Amenities: Many condos offer shared amenities like pools and fitness centers, which can save on personal installation and maintenance costs.
4. Urban Living: Condos are often situated in bustling city centers, ideal for those who value proximity to work, shopping, and entertainment.

Cons:

1. HOA Fees: Monthly HOA fees can add up, covering maintenance, amenities, and reserves for future expenses.
2. Less Privacy: Shared walls and communal spaces mean less seclusion than a standalone house.
3. Rules and Restrictions: HOAs often limit renovations, pet ownership, and leasing, restricting personal choice.

Pros & Cons of House Ownership

Pros:

1. Customization: Houses allow for more extensive modifications, from renovations to landscaping, without HOA restrictions.
2. Privacy: Detached houses offer greater seclusion and distance from neighbors.
3. Resale Value: Houses tend to appreciate faster and may yield a higher return on investment when sold.

Cons:

1. Higher Costs: Houses usually come with a higher price tag and maintenance expenses, making them more costly than condos.
2. Maintenance Responsibility: Homeowners handle all upkeep, including yard work, repairs, and upkeep of any added amenities.
3. Isolation: Some may find houses to be isolating compared to the community feel of a condo.

Which Is A Better Investment: Condo Or A House?

When considering which is a good investment option, a condo or a house, condos are the best option at present. Still, the significant reduction in the cost of houses and the enormous rise in the cost of condos have placed potential investors in a conflict regarding condo vs. house.

According to surveys, condominium prices have touched at least six figures. This is the highest level ever recorded in the city of Toronto. Condo vs. home is the most debated subject in Toronto's real estate and financial sectors.

Seeking professional advice can be invaluable. A qualified real estate agent will offer insights into the latest market trends and assist you in determining the most prudent investment choice between a condo and a house.

For those interested in condominium investments, especially pre-construction opportunities, Precondo stands out as a dedicated service provider. This firm is adept at guiding both investors and potential homeowners toward making informed decisions in the condominium market.

See also: Condo vs PUD (The Differences for Homebuyers)

References:

1. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/h/hoa.asp