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A townhouse is basically a property with its own unique entrance that shares one or two walls with an adjacent property. They are often uniformly designed, individually owned, and intended for single-family use. Most townhouses also feature multiple stories.
However, the term “townhouse” varies largely depending on location. For instance, a key characteristic of townhouses in the U.S. is that while they are considered standalone properties, they also belong to a larger community and governing body, such as a homeowners association (HOA).
While townhouses are popular in both urban and suburban areas, HOAs are less restrictive in densely populated city settings. Uniform row houses are also more common in such places. Think of the row houses in San Francisco or New York’s Brooklyn brownstones.
In the Philippines, townhomes were previously considered to serve a somewhat transitional purpose—suited for couples or starter families yet unprepared for a more traditional house and lot. But this has started to shift, with more people moving toward acquiring townhouses as permanent residences.
You can invest in either a condo or a house and lot in the Philippines; more than three separate homes in one big lot is considered a townhouse.
One thing all townhouses have in common, however, is balance. Because they are typically nestled in or near prime locations, offer shared amenities, and are more affordable than a traditional house and lot, a townhouse can provide the best of both worlds. You’ll get the ease and convenience of living in a condo in a homey and spacious property that is all your own—up to the very land it sits on.
A luxury townhouse is all this and more. Often boasting an upscale location, efficient security systems, gorgeous architecture, impressive shared amenities, and other prime features, a luxury townhouse provides the best of the best—all while keeping the essential characteristics of a townhouse with just the right amount of space, privacy, and ease.
Townhouses are further classified into various types. Depending on your budget, the number of occupants, and other home-related concerns, you might want to weigh the pros and cons of each:
This is a property with no shared walls. It is precisely what you picture a regular house and lot to be. Ownership of this property type means you own the home and the land on which it stands, which would come with some extra space, as in a back or front yard.
These types of houses are not technically townhomes. However, some properties are listed as single-detached simply due to their overall look and feel rather than the type of ownership. This is perfect for growing families as it offers lots of space and room for expansion or renovation. If you’re big on privacy, then a single detached is the way to go.
Single attached properties share at least one wall with the adjacent property or are built directly on the boundary of the lot. This usually means that there would be a bigger space on one side of the property. It also often comes with a space in the back and front.
This type of townhome is ideal for extended families who intend to live closer together. A good thing about this is that it fosters a tight-knit community. It’s also relatively inexpensive, with generally smaller home and lot dimensions and lower maintenance cost over the years.
A duplex consists of two units on one piece of land, adjoined by a wall but with separate entrances. If you’re willing to prioritize some aspects of the home over others—say, location over privacy—a duplex-type arrangement could be a relatively easy set-up for you.
Duplex homes maximize the lot space. Homebuyers who choose to build or purchase both units of the duplex can enjoy flexibility. They can let family members occupy the spare unit or have it rented out. It can serve as an investment should they decide to eventually rent out both units and transition to a larger home.
Similar to the duplex, triplex- and quadplex-type homes have three and four units, respectively, joined by a common wall or other structure. Generally, they are more cost-efficient and great for keeping relatives close, although privacy is a likely compromise.
With the way some townhouses are laid out, you may have to choose between having your own gated property or living within a compound. The primary advantage of having a property located within a compound is better security, as well as access to shared common areas and amenities.
No longer a stepping stone to owning a traditional house and lot, the townhouse has become a practical and beneficial choice for many homebuyers.
While its main draw may be condo-style living in a more traditional set-up, the townhouse is so much more. With location, amenities, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness as its advantages, townhouse living will inevitably maximize the value you get from investing in a home.
Whether you’re a young couple, a starter family, or a retiree, you’ll find living in a townhouse a fulfilling way to settle down. Opting to go all out on a luxury townhouse only guarantees a better quality of life—that is, ultimately, the goal in finding a home.
Convinced enough to start seeking out the perfect luxury townhouse for you? Here are some tips to keep in mind.
For any kind of home, location is everything. The good thing about luxury townhouses is that they’re often built in or near desirable areas. Consider next that the location should match your needs. Are there good schools nearby for your kids? Is it accessible to public transportation? Are there essential establishments, like markets or hospitals, within proximity?
While a luxury townhouse may tick a lot of boxes in terms of what you want in a home, keep in mind that no property will be 100% perfect.
You may have to sacrifice some features over others. You may find a great property with sophisticated amenities but not enough privacy. Or a relatively inexpensive option a little farther away from the city center than you’d hoped. Know your priorities, and keep them in mind while checking out properties.
If you’re checking out a property, try to get a good idea of what it’s like to live there. Check the walls for how much sound penetrates from the neighboring units. Have a chat with your neighbors to learn about possible issues (e.g., security, water supply, waste disposal, pests, etc.). Learn the regulations set by the homeowners association.
As shared areas are a key feature of townhomes, it’s something you must accept as a non-negotiable once you’ve settled on a property. Make sure that the shared areas or amenities are agreeable to you and don’t impede your privacy.
Another good thing about luxury townhouses is that they grant you more flexibility to customize your home exactly how you want. Compared to a condominium, there’s relatively more freedom to expand and renovate. If you already have certain pegs in mind, check whether they’re doable or not before signing the papers.
When you’re ready to take the leap, a luxury townhouse could be the right property to give you the convenient condo-style living you’ve always wanted, grounded in the warmth of a real home.
For a wide range of the best luxury properties, head to New Manila San Juan and discover the luxury townhouse of your dreams.
