The Good and Bad When Looking Comparing Houses vs Condos

Houses and condos are two different types of living styles and knowing the differences between the two will only help keep you happier in the long run.  The two are similar in a number of ways but there are subtle differences that make the two completely different entities. 

More times than not when you purchase a condominium you will be paying for amenities even if you are not using them.  Condo fees can also fluctuate up and down so you might be paying things you don’t want or need to pay for.  This can be a turn off for people who don’t want to deal with an extra payment on top of the mortgage and everything else. 

With a house you will only be paying for what you use and there are no condo fees.  A large part of condo fees are physical external upkeep with snow removal and landscaping.  When you are in a house this will lie solely on you to take care of and keeping up the appearance of a house is a lot of work.  If you have been living apartment life and are comfortable without having a yard than a condo might be for you.  On the other hand, if you enjoy working on the house and have children or a big dog you would definitely be advised to look into a house.

A condo is nice also because with the fee you pay per month to take care of the cosmetic aspect and upkeep around your house you know exactly what you are paying.  When you own a house there can be unexpected issues that arise and it can be hard to budget something of this nature. 

Deciding if you want a house or a condominium is really figuring out how much you are willing to do around the outside part of your house.  If you are constantly at work and don’t find a lot of free time than a condo might be best.  Being away all the time can make the yard, grass, and garden get rugged looking.  If you are going to invest a large amount of money make sure you have the want to take care of it. 

Children and large pets make it ideal to own a house.  You are already going to be home taking care of them so you will be around to take care of things around the house.  You will need to keep the yard clean so the children can play and if you have anything larger than a cat you will most likely need to be home to take care of that as well.  Children and pets keep you grounded and if you fall in this category you should seriously consider a house over a condo.