What's the difference between a condo, townhouse, and single-family home?
A single-family home sits on its own lot — you own the home and land. A townhouse is attached but you usually own the structure and a small lot. A condo means you own the interior unit while sharing the building and grounds, with an HOA.
In short, it's about what you own and how much you maintain. A single-family home is freestanding on its own lot — most freedom, most maintenance. A townhouse is typically attached to neighbors on one or both sides; you usually own the unit and a little land, with shared exterior rules.
A condo means you own the inside of your unit while the building and grounds are shared and managed by an association. Condos and townhomes usually have HOA dues that cover exterior upkeep — convenient, but a real monthly cost. Lenders also treat condos a little differently, so I'll factor that in as we shop.
This answer is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Your situation is unique — let's talk through the specifics together.