In today’s fast-paced world, we often come across situations where we are required to live in a small space. This is especially true for young professionals who want to live in the city and have low budgets. In such scenarios, apartments or townhouses are usually the best option.
However, before you go ahead and buy one, it’s important that you know the difference between a duplex and a townhouse so that you don’t end up buying the wrong one.
What Is a Duplex?
A duplex is a property where two different houses are connected by a common hallway. When it comes to ownership, the two properties are usually leased to different people and managed by a property management company.
Since both units are connected, they make a great choice for people who have roommates and like the idea of having their own space. However, if you are looking for a single unit, then a duplex may not be the best option for you.
If you want to buy a duplex, one thing you need to keep in mind is that you will be legally required to own both parts. And since most duplexes are owned by investors, you may have to share the common areas with your neighbors such as the hallway, the backyard, the staircase, the parking area, etc.
What is a Townhouse?
A townhouse is a type of property where two or more units are connected either on a floor or on a ground floor and above another unit. Since they are above another home or a ground floor, they make an excellent choice for people who want privacy while living in an urban area.
Another advantage of living in a townhouse is that you can easily extend the property by adding another floor above the existing one. Townhouses usually have a common driveway and a common entrance that leads to the backyard.
While most towns allow for only two-story townhouses, there are some rare towns that allow for multi-story townhouses.
Differences Between Duplex and Townhouse
Here are some of the key differences that you need to keep in mind when it comes to buying a duplex or a townhouse. Location – If you are looking for an affordable option that is close to the city center, you can go for a duplex. However, if you want to live in an area that is more secluded, you can go for a townhouse. – If you are looking for an affordable option that is close to the city center, you can go for a duplex.
However, if you want to live in an area that is more secluded, you can go for a townhouse. Size – A duplex will allow you to share common spaces such as the hallway, the stairway, the backyard, the parking area, etc. with your neighbors. However, a townhouse is a much better option if you want privacy. – A duplex will allow you to share common spaces such as the hallway, the stairway, the backyard, the parking area, etc.
with your neighbors. However, a townhouse is a much better option if you want privacy. Lease – In most cases, a duplex is owned and managed by an investor. This means that you will not own the property and you will have to pay an investor-owned fee. – In most cases, a duplex is owned and managed by an investor.
This means that you will not own the property and you will have to pay an investor-owned fee. Extension – Since they are above another home, it is easy to extend a townhouse. However, a duplex is a type of property that is difficult to extend.
Conclusion
Living in a small space doesn’t have to mean living in a cramped and small space. In fact, there are several different types of properties that can help you find the right fit for your needs. A duplex is a type of property that is best for those who share a common space with their neighbors but want their own space.
On the other hand, a townhouse is a type of property that is best for those who want privacy and don’t mind sharing common spaces with their neighbors. All things considered, duplexes and townhouses are great options for those who are looking for a smaller footprint, while still allowing them to have their own space.
