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.
- $100,000-$200,000
- $200,000-$300,000
- $300,000-$400,000
- $400,000-$500,000
- $500,000-$750,000
- $750,000-$1,000,000
Search - San Antonio Garden Homes - By Neighborhood
- Amorosa at Cibolo Canyons
- Campanas at Cibolo Canyons
- Garden Villas at
Bentley Manor
- La Cima at Cresta Bella
- Pond Hill Garden Villas
- Roseheart
- Settler's Ridge
at Kinder Ranch
- The Gardens at Greystone
- The Gardens at Willis Ranch
- The Reserve at Deerfield
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