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Townhouse vs. Condo in NYC: Which is a Better Investment -

Brian Lee BurkeBrian Lee Burke
Feb 8, 2023 6 min read
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Townhouse vs. Condo in NYC: Which is a Better Investment -

Purchasing real estate in NYC is always a good investment. You have a chance of reselling your new property for a higher price, too. But what is the best real estate option out there? As for the question of townhouses vs. condos in NYC, we can see that they have certain similarities but also many differences. As a result, it can take time to make the right purchase choice. Before you make a final decision, consider the following factors on the matter of townhouse vs. condo in NYC. 

Townhouse vs. Condo in NYC: The main differences 

On the outside, the two may seem very similar, if not the same. They are both units that are attached to other units via common walls. So, you will be sharing a wall with your neighbors no matter your choice. You will notice many condos when looking for the ideal new real estate investment. On the other hand, there are a much smaller number of townhouses on the market than condos. As for the upkeep, with a condo, you are not responsible for maintaining things outside your unit. But with a townhouse, you will have to take care of everything. This can be challenging because most townhouses have yards, terraces, and multiple floors.

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Purchasing a condo is more similar to buying an apartment, and purchasing a townhouse is more identical to purchasing a house. The extra space comes with additional work. With a townhouse, you will still have to pay a small amount for maintenance, such as trash removal. But overall, there is less hassle with paying fees to maintain the property. If you are still deciding which one to choose, think about how much time and effort you want to put into the upkeep of your new property. If you have time to spare and love a challenge, a townhouse may be your suitable investment. However, a condo is the way to go if you plan on being in this unit only temporarily and want to avoid the additional responsibilities.

Townhouse vs. Condo in NYC: Price and resale value  

Since you want to invest in real estate, price is essential when choosing. Condos are significantly more affordable than townhouses. This is no surprise, given that you only buy one unit instead of the entire property. With a townhouse, you will pay more, but you will also get more freedom. And, most importantly, you will get more space. Which investment option is safer in NYC? What makes more sense as an investment? Condos are a safer real estate investment because they have a high resale value. They are a trendy real estate choice in NYC, so you can purchase a condo to resell later on. But the decision between a townhouse vs. a Condo in NYC goes beyond the resale price. It also depends on how much profit you intend to make. 

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Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

Townhouses can be sold for much more when you invest the proper care into maintaining and upgrading the unit. So, if the market is good, your townhouse can go for much more than you purchased it for. But, if the market needs to be corrected, selling a townhouse can be challenging. Overall, you have a higher chance of selling a condo. If this is your first investment in real estate, a condo may be the correct, safe option. There is less risk, and you will likely be able to sell it quickly later. On the other hand, if you are up for a challenge and are willing to wait a while for more money, a townhouse is a suitable investment. Upgrading a townhouse and doing maintenance can be a fun project for the right person. 

Lifestyle differences with having a townhouse or a condo in NYC 

Choosing between the two will also affect your overall lifestyle. You will find townhouses in various sizes with different amenities. Usually, townhouses have a backyard and more than just the first floor. Some townhouses have common areas, such as pools, for which everyone must pay maintenance. You may even get a garage with a townhouse, so you don't have to worry about parking. If you are moving with multiple family members, the price will undoubtedly pay off, as everyone will have more than enough room in a townhouse. If you live a busy lifestyle and don't have the time to maintain a yard and what is essentially a house, choose a condo. When you don't have the time to maintain a property, you must hire someone else, making this a potentially harmful real estate investment. 

Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.

As for the neighbors, you will be more secluded with a townhouse. You will find a condo in a building with multiple units, so the experience is similar to one in an apartment. As previously stated, you will have shared walls in whichever of these units you choose, so you may be able to hear your neighbors if they are loud. But you won't have to see your neighbors as much with a townhouse. So, a townhouse may be the right choice if you want more privacy and a sense of independence. When you choose and start packing, hire reliable and trustworthy NYC movers. According to moving experts, when you rely on an experienced team, you can save money. When you purchase packing supplies and have to pay for gas, it can all add up and cost even more than hiring professional residential movers. 

Townhouse vs. Condo in NYC: The final verdict 

When discussing a townhouse vs. a condo in NYC, they make suitable potential real estate investments. But the decision depends on how fast you want your investment to pay off and how much you want to earn once you sell it. You have a higher chance of selling quickly with a condo, but a townhouse can make you more money. 

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WRITTEN BY
Brian Lee Burke
Brian Lee Burke
AUTHOR, E-PRO®, REALTOR® BROKER

Brian Lee Burke is the founder and team leader of Kenna Real Estate Group, a real estate team at Keller Williams DTC. A licensed REALTOR® since 2002, Brian helps Colorado buyers and sellers navigate residential real estate, new construction, pricing, and negotiation. He is also the author of The Real Estate Playbook and Mastering Real Estate: Your Guide to Becoming a Top Agent.

View Brian Lee Burke’s full profile.