We say one of the ultimate dreams of anyone is having his own house. It is very evident as we sketched square houses when we were still kids.
As we continue to grow up and make significant life decisions, these dreams gradually start to come true. You’re reading this because you’re planning on investing in a house that you once dreamed of having.
You perhaps found the term “single-family home” searching for a perfect house for you. But do you know what makes a single-family house different from other types of houses?
A single-family home is generally designed to be set apart or detached from other homes. This kind of house is meant for one family to occupy.
The construction of a single-family house is one to a two-story home with a car garage or a backyard. It usually has a vast space other than the house itself.
Here, We’ll help you make up your mind about the single-family house you may live in anytime soon. But first, let’s clarify how a unit can be called a single-family home.
Single-family vs. Multi-family Home
We may need to tackle first the difference between single-family and multi-family homes.
How do you know if the house you’re eyeing is a single-family or a multi-family unit? Which one is better, which one is worse?
Let’s talk about that!
Single-family Home
There are significant characteristics for a house to consider as a single-family home. It should have an individual heating system and separate meters for all utilities.
A single-family house is never attached to other units. It is not supposed to share interior walls and utilities. It also should not have any companies located above or below since it has a ground-to-roof wall.
Every unit that doesn’t meet these certain conditions is considered a multi-family home.
Multi-family Home
A condominium is an example of a unit in a multi-family building. It is a unit in a structure with distinct ownership parameters.
Residents own a specific unit’s interior walls. However, they have joint access in common areas and facilities such as the lobby or pool area.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Single-family Home
Now that you’re considering a single-family house, there are things that you need to be aware of having. You have to consider the positive and negative effects it may bring to your life and family.
However, its perks and disadvantages may differ on where you reside and the type of house you’re considering. So also consider your situation before making a huge decision.
Perks
Single-family residents can hold the pride of possession and a particular amount of freedom. They have all the rights to do whatever they will want with their homes.
Privacy
Since its particular definition is isolated from other units’ utilities, it is perfect for those who prefer privacy. It usually sits on a separate lot, so it doesn’t share walls with your next-door-neighbor.
You will hear less noise in your neighborhood, unlike when you have a unit above or below your space. And in some cases, neighbors can’t even hear each other’s house noise.
Space
This kind of house usually has more storage area than condominiums and other property types with shared interior walls. It gives the homeowners more elbow room, both from indoors and outdoors.
Mostly, there is an extra space for a garage, backyard, or shed that’s yours alone, even if it’s not that big. You can place a pool or patio, and you’ll not feel guilty for not sharing it with your neighbors.
Freedom
Since the home is yours, it’s easier for you to personalize it with your taste and style. It offers flexibility, so you have a say in everything you want to change in your own house.
It’s all up to you on what to do with your front or backyard. You can even have camping with your children with a fire pit in your lot.
A single-family home is ideal for people who want to be free to do whatever they want. They can improve, modify, style, or choose the color they want because they are in control.
Drawbacks
There are some disadvantages in a single-family residence which may boil down to its advantage as well—space. You have to attend to all the responsibilities covering your property.
Maintenance
Single-family homeowners are accountable for the sustenance of their own homes and lots. It even varies depending on where you reside.
You will need a lot of maintenance budget for repairs and potential emergencies that may affect your house. Otherwise, you’ll do it all by yourself.
Accessibility
Unfortunately, single-family homes are not ideal for people with disabilities or find stairs difficult to use. Residents tend to sell their houses eventually to move to a condominium where there are more amenities and easier access.
Price
Single-family residences can require a lot more money than multi-family units. It is true if you’re getting a house with a large area.
However, you may check housing costs in your city to try your chances.
Types and Examples of Single-family Homes
A single-family house can be a detached or a semi-detached residence. A detached house is usually a stand-alone, one-family house. A semi-detached house is designed as one of a pair with one shared wall.
Here are the examples of single-family detached houses:
- Isolated Homes
- Townhouses
- Ranch Homes
- Twin Houses
- Bungalows
- Courthouses
5 Things You Need to Consider Before Investing in a Single-family Home
Your Allotted Budget
Know how much you wish to invest and how you intend to finance your property before finding one.
Ask yourself if you have things to set aside in investing in a property or if you’re comfortable asking for debt, and so on. You can also think about paying through a loan, cash, savings, or any mode of payment you may think of doing.
Your Target Location
The location is one of the most crucial things to consider. Where do you want to live? Is it near to your company or your children’s school?
Consider your current and future demand for your life. Study the school district of the city, their crime rate, and access to transportation.
Your Daily Expenses
It’s reasonable to be enthusiastic about getting an investment property. However, you have to consider the various fees when owning a property, such as taxes, insurance, maintenance, etc.
Variable expenses cover accidental repairs, essential resource expenses (new roof, heater, repainting), legal fees, and more. Always include all of the possible costs when you’re estimating a budget cost for your property.
Your Available Resources
Advice and support from the professionals are recommended. You have to have a stable, accurate team of experts from the start.
Research for a local real estate organization or group. In some cases, you will get recommendations for constructors and other experts you will need moving forward.
Your Exit Strategy
Some of our plans don’t come our way. You will want to have a backup strategy if things do not go out well.
Serve your table with a lot of options to decide the best alternative for you. If you choose to rent isn’t the best for you, determine if you will resell the house or refinance the mortgage. It’s all up to you.
As you see it, there are lots of things to consider before you invest in a property. You may also ask yourself: is now an excellent time to buy a house?
As long as you take your chance and prepare, it will be a success in the long run!
Final Thoughts
If you think you’re the kind of person who wants a life around the suburbs, a single-home property must be really for you. It’s perfect for you to have your privacy and freedom.
You may want to talk to your local real estate agents about your plans to help you prepare. The experts will surely help you find a home that fits you and your family.
If you feel like you’re ready to have a house, it is still necessary to double-think your decisions. You have to know if it’s just a burst of emotion, or you’re up for something real.
Whether it’s a single-family home or a rental apartment, it all goes down to your readiness—financially and emotionally. Keep in mind the points that we have stated when considering investing in real estate.
Be aware and mindful as you jump into the realm of property investment. Educate yourself and be knowledgeable on what step you’re going to get next.
If you found this article helpful for you, you may want to read these articles as well:
- Is Now A Good Time To Buy A House? Top Things To Consider
- Apartments Vs. Condos: Everything A Renter Needs To Know In 2021
- What Should You Look For In Location Of A Home?
Please drop a comment below and tell us what you want to learn next!
