Types of Residential Structures
SINGLE-FAMILY, TOWNHOMES, CONDOMINIUMS
Single-Family
A single-family home, defined as an independent freestanding residential structure, sits on its own land and is designed to be used as a single dwelling unit, having just one kitchen, unshared walls, taxes, and utilities.
The owners of the individual single-family homes may collectively own the common areas, such as tracts, pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, and other amenities. Typically, a property manager hired by the homeowners association manages the common areas and amenities.
Townhomes
Townhomes are three or more attached (typically multi-floor) homes that have their own entrances. In the suburbs, townhomes are often uniform homes built in a distinct community with their own homeowner's association. Newer urban townhomes may have a uniform look and an association, but older townhomes in cities tend to be more traditional rowhomes that can stretch for city blocks.
The building envelope and foundation of each townhome are the property of the individual homeowner. Each townhome has at least one shared wall with an adjacent townhome.
The owners of the individual units collectively own the common areas of the property, such as tracts, pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, etc. Typically, a property manager hired by the homeowners association manages the common areas and amenities.
Though there's some overlap between townhomes and condos, condos are generally units in larger buildings with multiple floors and multiple units on each floor. They're individually owned but might also be rented to tenants. However, condos in townhouse-type configurations are more and more popular in modern-day construction.
Condominiums
Residential condominiums are frequently constructed in styles similar to apartment buildings. However, they may also include townhome-type configurations and patio homes (detached structures).
The building envelope and foundation, regardless of type, are collectively owned by the homeowners. The owners of the individual units also collectively own the property's common areas, such as corridors/hallways, walkways, laundry rooms, HVAC systems, elevators, and garages. In addition, yards, corridors, building exteriors, and any recreational facilities (like pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, and other amenities) may also be collectively owned by the homeowners. Typically, a property manager hired by the homeowners association manages the common areas, amenities, and utilities.
Parking Garage
Condominium garages are common area owned and maintained by the Homeowners Association.
