Buying A House vs. Condo: Which Is Better?
Introduction
There are several kinds of housing available. It depends upon you if you want to buy a condo or a house (ซื้อคอนโดหรือบ้านดี, which is a term in Thai).
Condos are private urban units within a multi-unit community or building. This type of housing shares the same walls with their neighborhood. The residents generally share the same facilities, common area, and amenities. On the other hand, a house is a separate property altogether.
Comparing House And Condo
Prices
The average cost of a house is around USD 2,41,700, while the average cost of a condo is USD 2,31,600. That utterly makes a difference of USD 10,000, but the gap is broader in different markets. Comparatively, condos are cheaper than houses. If you want to buy a condo or a house, it depends on your purchasing power.
Repairs & Maintenance Cost
House owners spend a lot in painting the house, mowing lands, trimming hedges, cleaning gutters, and raking leaves. On the contrary, condo owners are relaxed as they don’t have to incur any expenditure. Condos are generally owned and maintained by the homeowner’s association (HOA). The owners of the condo are responsible for interior repairs and maintenance. But, outside the condo is none of their concern.
Location
Since condos are small and are densely packed, there are several amenities available to them. They are generally located in downtown areas with numerous cultural activities, entertainment, shopping, and job opportunities. Alternatively, house owners are deprived of such amenities due to their suburban locality.
Amenities
A large condo comes with shared amenities. It includes swimming pools, gymnasiums, tennis courts, golf courses, pet parks, and jogging tracks. However, homeowners have to travel to public areas to get those benefits. Condo owners do not have to leave their property to enjoy those benefits.
Social Connections
You cannot connect socially with a lot of people if you live in a house. Condos are much socially connected in this regard. Moreover, condos tend to attract people as the residents share similar backgrounds and interests.
Space To Grow
It is related to the space factor. If your family grows, you can expand the space of your house as well. You can add more space by knocking down walls in a house. You can even build a backyard on your property. You cannot have these perks if you have a condo.
Conclusion
Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. Thus, it is upon you if you want to buy a condo or a house.