If you’re looking for a home and can’t decide between a townhome and a condo, you’re not alone. These two types of living are popular for good reasons: they are frequently less expensive than single-family homes, require less maintenance, and are usually located in desirable, handy districts.
When considering investment potential, buyers often wonder if townhomes or condominiums gain value more quickly.
Let’s break it down in simple terms—no fluff, no jargon—so you can choose what makes the most sense for your objectives.
A townhome (sometimes known as a row house) is a multi-story residence that shares one or two walls with neighboring apartments. Consider it the ideal compromise between a condo and a single-family home. You often receive your own private entrance, a little yard or patio, and maybe even a garage—and you usually own the property on which it rests.
Today’s newly built townhomes are extremely popular with customers looking for modern conveniences, low maintenance, and high resale value.
A condo (short for condominium) is typically part of a larger structure. You only own the interior of your apartment; everything else—the corridors, outside, landscaping, and shared amenities such as the pool or gym—is managed by the homeowners association (HOA).
Condos are ideal for people who enjoy city living or prefer a “lock-and-leave” lifestyle with low maintenance.
The short answer is yes—and in many circumstances, townhomes appreciate quicker than condominiums.
Here’s why.
• You own the land, which normally appreciates value over time.
• Townhomes often appeal to a broader spectrum of customers, particularly families seeking more space.
• Townhouses are in high demand in many suburban and rapidly expanding areas, driving costs up.
If you’re looking for freshly built townhomes for sale, you could benefit from early appreciation, especially if you live in a developing neighborhood or near new infrastructure such as transit or schools.
Definitely. Condos may and do appreciate, particularly in urban places where space is limited, and walkability is essential.
However, their appreciation may be a little slower or more dependant on factors such as:
The general condition and reputation of the building
Whether the building includes modern amenities and renovations.
Local supply and demand, particularly for smaller units.
For example, a downtown condo in Seattle with a wonderful view and a strong HOA will most certainly see substantial long-term growth. But an aging structure with expensive fees and regular assessments? This might slow things down.
Here’s the truth: it depends on where you shop, what you buy, and when.
However, in many parts of the United States—particularly in metro areas such as Seattle—townhomes tend to value more quickly than condos. Why?
Land ownership makes a significant difference in long-term value.
Townhomes are easier to maintain and sell since they rely less on shared building services (such as elevators or outside walls).
Townhomes feel more like “real homes,” and many purchasers value that amount of independence.
But don’t rule out condos—if you buy in the right building, in the right location, a condo might provide excellent returns.
Purchasing new can be a wise decision, particularly if you desire low maintenance and energy efficiency from the start.
Here is what to keep an eye on:
Location: Is the area growing? Near schools, parks, or public transportation?
Layout: Open floor plans, efficient storage, and modern finishes provide long-term value.
Make sure the HOA fees are affordable and cover relevant services.
Community design: Are there any green spaces, walking pathways, or shared amenities that make the neighborhood feel welcoming?
At MSR Communities, we develop new construction townhomes that meet all of these criteria. Our homes are constructed with comfort, functionality, and resale value in mind.
If you’re thinking about buying a condo, here are a few helpful tips:
Examine the HOA documents: Look for evidence of good management and a healthy reserve money.
Understand what your HOA costs cover, which may include utilities, insurance, or high-end amenities like as rooftop decks or fitness centers.
Examine the resale history: Has the building retained or grown value over time?
Inquire about upcoming repairs or assessments. If you are unprepared, these might have a significant impact on your budget.
Condos are ideal for buyers who value convenience, little upkeep, and walkability.
If showing appreciation is your primary priority, here’s a simple rule of thumb:
Condominiums in metropolitan cores may appreciate more quickly, particularly high-end or luxury apartments in great locations.
In suburban or rapidly rising locations, townhomes frequently outperform—especially newer homes with modern features and cheap HOA costs.
If you want to reside in the property for a few years, both options can provide excellent long-term value. However, if you’re thinking like an investor, townhomes may offer a superior balance of equity development and resale value.
Whether you’re looking for new construction townhomes, a modern condo with amenities, or an investment property with potential, now is the time to check into your alternatives.
MSR Communities creates beautifully designed, newly constructed townhomes for sale in some of Puget Sound’s most desirable neighborhoods. From open floor plans to smart technology and community-friendly layouts, our homes are designed to be lived in while also increasing in value.
When it comes to appreciation, both condos and townhomes can be excellent investments—it all depends on your objectives, lifestyle, and market conditions.
However, if you’re wondering if townhomes or condos appreciate faster, the common consensus in many markets is that townhomes have a modest advantage, particularly when they’re newer builds in booming districts.
Still not sure which way to go? Let us chat. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, upgrading, or investing for the future, we’ll help you find the appropriate fit—one that prioritizes both comfort and long-term value.
Find recently built townhomes for sale in your area today! 📍 Seattle, Kirkland, Bothell, Lynnwood, and Kenmore (🏡) [Schedule a Tour] | [Chat with an Agent] | [Discover MSR Communities].
