Unlike condos, townhouses are individual houses that are adjacent to each other. Though they have more extensive floor space, these homes share one or two walls. Purchasing a townhouse is undoubtedly a huge investment and a critical decision. Therefore, you need to be sure of what you want before making the purchase. For the most current, luxurious and affordable townhouses in Tucson, visit www.movoto.com.
Since buying a house is a critical investment, you need to put into consideration some factors. If you have decided to buy a townhouse, below are some essential factors you should consider beforehand.
The Condition of the Shared Walls
For shared walls, the presence of firewalls is very crucial. Ask about the type of materials used during construction to ensure that it can prevent smoke or fire spreading from one townhouse to the other.
Mostly, many walls are made of concrete. Enquire if the joints between the concrete blocks are entirely sealed to prevent penetration of smoke. Also, the walls should be long enough to reach the attic and extend downwards to the foundation.
Ensure that the townhouse is compliant to current codes of local fire safety. In case you purchase the house without checking fire safety compliance, you will later pay a substantial amount of money for its modification. Also, the absence of firewalls will hike your homeowner insurance rates. As a result, you need an expert home inspector to determine whether the firewalls are in place.
Another crucial issue to consider is the soundproofing between townhouses due to shared walls. A right house should have insulating material in place to reduce the amount of sound transmission. Also, plumbing and waste lines should be securely strapped to curb vibrations. Doing so enhances a bit of privacy between the houses since you cannot hear what is going on in your neighbour’s house.
Location
Location is a fundamental factor that many people consider when looking for a home. Typically, most townhouses are located near urban centres. However, you may find that the most suitable townhouse, with all the features you want, is not in an ideal location. As such, you would need to forgo that townhouse for a less favourable one.
Location is significant because it affects your daily routine. Before choosing a townhouse, determine how convenient it will be for you to access your workplace. Also, it should be near basic amenities such as hospitals, schools, markets and shopping centres.
You should also consider the availability of passable roads and convenient means of transport.
For you to get a clear perspective of your new neighbourhood, visit the place at different times of the day, especially during weekday rush hours and weekends. Also, seek to know the proposed development projects on the area, both long-term and short-term. Anticipating some positive changes will allow you to enjoy your new townhome at the moment fully.
Your Floor Requirements
The best way to determine your floor requirement is by understanding your lifestyle preferences. Knowing the type of living space that you need is very crucial before making a buying decision because it prevents future regrets.
Since townhouses have diverse floor designs, ensure that you compare several before settling on any. Determine which areas of your house need open floorplans and where you need privacy or separate space. Check around for your favourite floorplan, and you will get it.
The Privacy of Exterior Spaces
Since townhouses are built side by side, ensure that you are comfortable with their exterior first before purchasing. Some are divided by fences, walls or privacy screens while others have nothing at all dividing them. If that is the case, inquire if the owner can allow you to add extra privacy. Perhaps a hedge or a fence among other improvements just to enhance your security.
Ensure that the answer they give you is in writing for future reference if they might change their mind. It is essential to ask all these questions before you make payments, sign contracts or close the sale.
Your Legal Requirements to Pay for Common Maintenance
Shared maintenance is an individual expense, and so you need to give it much consideration when looking for a townhouse. Many townhouses have collective gated security, roads and pathways, parking spaces, and also green areas. Others have upgraded recreational facilities such as swimming pools, gyms and playgrounds. As such, these amenities require regular maintenance which is a shared obligation of all homeowners living there.
It is essential to understand these obligations before buying a house because failure to comply with them has serious consequences. Moreover, you cannot hire your maintenance personnel and forego paying the agreed assessment fee. Doing so attracts a lien on your property from the homeowners association. Usually, a financial penalty accompanies the lien and sometimes a foreclosure of your house. To avoid such complications, look for a home whose maintenance fee is favourable to you.
The Shared Areas and Amenities
Plumbing is a basic necessity for homeowners. Therefore, find out more about the plumbing requirements. Find out if each housing unit has its supply and waste lines that go from the house to the curb directly. If not so, then the supply and waste lines are shared among homeowners and are maintained by the housing association.
Water too is an essential resource and therefore, enquire if it’s shared or individually supplied through water meters. Cooling and heating systems can either be commonly shared or separate. Check if the exterior lighting is wired to a standard circuit or it is individually supplied for each housing unit. Ensure that you are thoroughly acquainted with the shared amenities before accepting the sale. You can get all the answers to your questions during home inspections.
Shared utilities translate to shared costs between you and your neighbour. Also, find out about the internet and telecommunication service providers.
In conclusion, there is unfathomed fulfilment that comes with owning a townhouse. However, you need to understand the terms, features and requirements of townhome owners. Ensure you are comfortable before signing any contracts. Check out the most current and fantastic townhouses in Tucson on www.movoto.com.
