Condos: Low-Maintenance Homes Featuring Simplied, Yet Stylish Living

A condominium, or condo, is a privately-owned home located within a larger residential complex. In a condo setup, each owner has full ownership of the interior of their individual unit while the condo association (COA) and HOA oversee the upkeep of the building's exterior and common community spaces. In some cases, condo communities may offer communal amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, landscaped gardens and other shared facilities.

Key features:

• Typically located in multi-story buildings (Although, the unit itself can consist of one, two, three or even four floors of finished space.)

• Maintenance of exterior and shared spaces are handled by the COA and HOA

• Ideal for those seeking a lock-and-leave lifestyle 

• Can include amenities like fitness centers, clubhouses and security 

Best for: 

• Busy professionals
• Frequent travelers
• Those looking for a low-maintenance home with community perks

Townhomes: Community Living with a Personal Touch 

Townhomes can be single-story or multi-level residences that typically share one or two walls with adjacent units but offer the feel of a single family home. Each unit has its own private entrance, and many include a small yard or patio and a connected garage. Those who own a townhome are responsible for their interior and exterior. 

Key features: 

• Individual ownership of both the interior and exterior 

• Often part of a managed community with HOA services 

• Offers more privacy and space than a condo 

Best for: 

• Families or individuals who want more space and autonomy than a condo offers but still appreciate the benefits of a community setting

Paired Villas: Your Ideal Balance of Space and Simplicity

Also known as duplexes, twin homes or paired patio homes, paired villas are single-level or one-and-a-half-story homes that share one common wall with a neighboring unit. They offer the feel of a detached home with the efficiency of shared construction. They often appeal to those seeking low-maintenance living with a bit more privacy. 

Villas may include a small yard or patio, and like townhomes, they have private entrances and attached garages, but they tend to emphasize single-level living and are often found in communities geared toward downsizing or retirement. Homebuyers looking for multi-generational living may also gravitate towards this type of setup.

Key features: 

• Single-story living, often with open floor plans 

• Private entrances, driveways and garages 

• Lower maintenance than a traditional single-family home 

• Great for aging in place or those seeking a quieter, more residential feel 

Best for: 

• Those looking for a blend of privacy, comfort and ease of living 

• Empty nesters
• Retirees
• Multi-generational families

Ready to start designing your dream home?

From Instagram inspiration and Pinterest pins to your final floor plan, Drees makes it easy to bring it all together. We know your home is more than a dwelling. It’s an expression of who you are and what you value. Designing a custom home is a very personal endeavor, and we want to be here to help you every step of the way. To get started, click here.