If you are currently searching for a new home to buy, you may be considering purchasing a townhome instead of a detached house so that you have certain amenities available or don't have to work as hard to maintain the property. However, you may be a little anxious, as you are unsure as to what owning a townhome entails. If so, start your fact-seeking mission by asking the following questions while viewing a potential townhome you would like to buy.
1. Are There Any Rules in Place to Ensure the Tranquility and Convenience of the Neighborhood?
Especially if you are used to living in a regular house, you may be a little anxious about having neighbors living directly next to you. You may worry that the people on the other sides of the walls to either side of your home will be noisy, such as throwing wild parties every night on the weekend or playing their music each night when they get off from work.
While you are looking at a potential townhouse, ask whether or not there are any rules in place to ensure that noise levels are kept to a minimum. Since townhouses are typically in a community, there may be a process you can go through if you are dealing with loud neighbors that may include penalties such as fines for not heeding an initial warning.
2. Are There Any Fees Related to the Upkeep and for the Amenities of the Property?
One of the allures of living in a townhome community may be the amenities that come with it. There may be a pool or clubhouse that you can use, or there may even be a gym on the property. Usually, the HOA will even take care of the landscaping and upkeep of the exterior buildings so that you do not have to worry about it.
However, these amenities and conveniences typically come at a price. Make sure you ask if there are any fees related to them, such as a homeowners' association (HOA) membership fee or one for activities. Knowing beforehand of any extra expenses can help you determine whether that cost plus your mortgage and utilities will work within your family's budget.
Asking the above questions when considering whether or not to buy a townhouse instead of a detached home can help you be prepared for any rules or fees that may come with owning the property. For more information about what to look for when viewing townhomes for sale, speak with a real estate agent in the area in which you wish to move.
