Should You Buy a Garden-Patio Home?

The charming feature of these homes is not the patio—it’s the price.

Garden-patio homes can be good options for buyers wanting an affordable, low-maintenance property, without the hassles and headaches that come with a traditional single-family home.

But they’re not right for everyone. As with any type of real estate, garden-patio homes have their own unique pros and cons, and weighing these is crucial before moving forward with a purchase.

What Is a Garden-Patio Home?

Garden-patio homes should not be confused properties that simply have a patio. The term “garden-patio home” speaks to a specific style of real estate, not any one exterior feature or amenity. The definition of a garden-patio home can vary greatly, but generally, a garden-patio home is a smaller, single-family home with a compact yard and lot size. Most of the time, they’re just one story, though in some cases, garden-patio homes may be larger. Usually they’re attached to other neighboring properties via a shared, fence less lot or yard.

Garden-patio homes are sometimes described by builders and planners as “zero-lot-line” homes, which are designed to reduce land use and better serve a high volume of homeowners by eliminating traditional backyards and separate lots between properties.

Garden-patio homes are typically part of larger garden-patio home communities. These often have homeowners associations in place, which require monthly or annual dues to cover maintenance of communal areas. They may also offer clubs, events, and other social opportunities for residents. They tend to be popular for empty nesters who want to reduce home maintenance tasks or first-time buyers working with a limited budget.

Garden-Patio Homes vs. Condos and Townhomes

Garden-patio homes are often confused with townhomes and condominiums, though the three differ slightly. Townhomes typically share walls with adjoining properties, either on one side or both sides of the property. They also usually have a front and backyard, as well as a driveway, that the owner is responsible for maintaining.

Condos also share walls with adjoining units, though they may have these on either side of the property or above or below it. Condo owners generally do not have yards to maintain nor are they responsible for any exterior repairs or maintenance.

In both cases, owners usually pay an association or community fee to help maintain the shared areas of the property. Condo dues are often higher due to the additional exterior maintenance provided.

Pros and Cons of Garden-Patio Homes

Garden-patio homes are designed with minimal maintenance in mind. Unlike traditional single-family homes, their small lots require little upkeep. Still, they offer a similar level of privacy and independence, unlike condos, townhomes, and other similar properties that are more communal. Because of their smaller size, garden-patio homes are typically more affordable than traditional homes.

On the downside, garden-patio home communities almost always have a homeowner’s association, which requires dues on a monthly or annual basis. Depending on the scope of maintenance required at the community, as well as any amenities offered, these can get costly.

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