If you are buying a home in Utah, one of the first big decisions is choosing between a condo, a townhome, or a single-family home. Each type of property has unique benefits and trade-offs, and the right fit depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for affordability, a busy professional who wants low maintenance, or a growing family that needs space, it helps to understand how these property types compare.
This article explores the key differences so you can feel confident about which one might be best for you.
What is a Condo
Condos are individually owned units within a larger building or community, similar to an apartment but with ownership rights. When you purchase a condo, you typically own the interior of your unit and share ownership of the common areas, such as hallways, pools, or fitness centers.
Pros of Condos:
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Often the most affordable entry point into homeownership in Utah
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Low maintenance since the HOA usually covers exterior upkeep and landscaping
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Access to amenities like gyms, pools, and clubhouses
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Convenient locations, especially in city centers like Salt Lake City or Provo
Cons of Condos:
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Monthly HOA fees can be high
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Less privacy compared to townhomes or single-family homes
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More restrictive HOA rules and regulations
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Resale value can be impacted by the overall health of the community association
If you want to learn more about how HOAs and CC and Rs affect your ownership rights, check out my article on Utah HOAs and CC&Rs Explained.
What is a Townhome
Townhomes are multi-level homes that share walls with neighbors but usually have their own small yard or outdoor space. Ownership typically includes the interior and exterior of the property, including the land it sits on.
Pros of Townhomes:
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More privacy than condos, with fewer shared spaces
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Often more square footage than condos, while still being more affordable than single-family homes
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Small yard or patio, perfect for pets or a little gardening
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HOAs are common but fees are generally lower than condo communities
Cons of Townhomes:
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Shared walls mean less privacy than a detached single-family home
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Smaller yard space compared to a traditional house
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HOA still enforces rules and collects fees for common area maintenance
For many Utah buyers, townhomes are the “in between” choice, offering affordability and space. They are especially popular in growing communities like Daybreak and Herriman, where master-planned developments include both townhomes and single-family homes.
What is a Single-Family Home
Single-family homes are detached properties on their own parcel of land. This is the traditional style of homeownership and usually provides the most independence and privacy.
Pros of Single-Family Homes:
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Complete control over the property without shared walls
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Larger yards and outdoor space, great for families and entertaining
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Typically stronger long-term resale value in Utah markets
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Ability to customize or remodel without needing HOA approval (unless the neighborhood has one)
Cons of Single-Family Homes:
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Higher purchase price compared to condos or townhomes
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Full responsibility for maintenance, landscaping, and repairs
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Property taxes and insurance costs are usually higher
If you are thinking long-term and want to understand how resale value can affect your decision, check out my article on Top Questions to Ask About a Home’s Resale Value.
Which One is Right for You
Choosing between a condo, a townhome, and a single-family home in Utah comes down to your lifestyle and financial situation.
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If you want affordability and low maintenance, a condo might be best
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If you want a balance of affordability and space, a townhome offers a great middle ground
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If you want privacy, outdoor space, and strong long-term value, a single-family home may be the right fit
It is also important to consider your financing. Some loan programs, like FHA and VA, may have specific rules about condos. You can compare these loan types in my article on FHA vs VA vs Conventional Loans in Utah.
Final Thought
Whether you choose a condo, a townhome, or a single-family home in Utah, the key is finding the property type that matches your lifestyle and future goals. Each option has its advantages, and the right choice will feel like the place where you can truly build your life.
If you are not sure which property type fits you best, I would be happy to walk you through examples and even tour different styles of homes together. When you understand the differences, the decision becomes exciting rather than overwhelming.
