If you're thinking about buying a home in Seattle, you're likely weighing one of the most common questions for buyers today: Should I buy a townhome or a single-family home?

The truth is, both options offer advantages, but the right fit depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Here’s a clear comparison to help you decide which type of home makes the most sense for you.

Townhomes: A Smart Step Into Homeownership

Townhomes are a popular choice for many first-time buyers in Seattle—and for good reason.

Why Buyers Choose Townhomes:

• Affordability: Townhomes are typically less expensive than single-family homes in the same neighborhood.

• Newer construction: Many townhomes are new or recently built, which means lower maintenance costs and fewer immediate repairs.

• Efficient layouts: Townhomes often offer flexible floor plans, sometimes with a private bedroom and bathroom on a separate level, which is ideal if you’re thinking of renting out a room for extra income.

Consider This:

While they offer many perks, townhomes generally appreciate in value slower than single-family homes. If your priority is long-term equity growth, this is something to factor into your decision.

Also, townhomes often come with HOA fees and some restrictions on changes to the exterior or shared spaces.

Single-Family Homes: More Space, More Responsibility

Single-family homes typically offer more freedom and privacy—but they also come with greater responsibility.

Why Buyers Choose Single-Family Homes:

• Equity potential: These homes tend to appreciate faster over time, especially in high-demand areas like Seattle.

• Yard space: Whether it's for pets, gardening, or entertaining, having a yard is a major plus for many buyers.

• Fewer shared walls: More privacy, more flexibility, and fewer noise concerns.

• More control: No HOA means you're in charge of your property—and your decisions.

Consider This:

• Most single-family homes are older than townhomes, especially in Seattle neighborhoods like Green Lake, Ballard, and Capitol Hill. That means ongoing maintenance, from roof repairs to plumbing updates.

• Upfront costs may be higher, both for the purchase and the upkeep.

Layout and Lifestyle Matter

Another key difference is the layout.

Townhomes tend to be vertical, with multiple levels. If you’re okay with stairs and love separation between spaces (like a home office on one floor and bedrooms on another), a townhome may be perfect.

Single-family homes often offer flatter floor plans, with more bedrooms on the same level—a helpful feature for families or those who want fewer stairs.

So, What Should You Choose?

At the end of the day, the right home depends on what fits your current lifestyle and future goals.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want less maintenance and a newer build? → A townhome might be the better choice.

• Are you looking for long-term equity, a yard, and full control over your space? → Consider a single-family home.

Both townhomes and single-family homes offer great opportunities to build wealth and stability as a homeowner in Seattle. It all comes down to what matters most to you now—and what you hope to gain in the future.

If you're not sure which path is right, I'm here to help you walk through the pros and cons, neighborhood options, and financial implications.