Patio homes are becoming increasingly popular around the United States, especially in the Northeast and other regions where residents seek simplicity and quaint living. These distinct properties share a wall with a neighboring home, are typically one to one-and-a-half stories high, and are often more affordable than a standalone, single-family home.
While their stylish name may suggest otherwise, these homes don’t always include a porch. However, they make up for this with their endless charm, exquisite perched lofts, and low annual mainte
nance. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about these exciting and unique real estate properties.
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How Are Garden Homes and Patio Homes Different?
Patio homes and garden homes are the same thing. In fact, garden homes, carriage homes, and cluster homes are all additional terms used to describe a one-to-one-and-a-half-story property that shares a wall with a neighboring unit.
These small-profile properties first sprang up in the 1960s and ’70s when there was a desire for single-family homes that took advantage of multi-family zoning. Whether you refer to them as patio, garden, or carriage homes, builders designed them to fit together in groups or clusters (hence their other common name).
How do Patio Homes Compare to Other Types of Homes?
At first glance, garden homes may draw some similarities to townhomes and condos. After all, each property type commonly features at least one shared wall with a neighbor and mimics standard homes using clapboard siding, brick veneers, and other aesthetic elements. However, these homes are distinctly unique.
How are Patio Homes and Townhomes Different?
The main difference between these homes and townhomes is their size. While townhouses often include two or more stories, patio homes have a compact, easy-to-maintain floor plan that extends to one and a half stories at the maximum.
How Are Patio Homes and Condos Different?
Condos and garden homes are different in terms of what the owner actually owns. Unlike condos, where owners tend only to possess the property's interior, the owner of a patio home typically owns the house and the lot it sits on. This distinction can make patio homes a terrific alternative to condo living, especially if a property includes a small yard, porch, or driveway.
How Are Patio Homes and Ranch Style Homes Different?
While patio and ranch-style homes often feature single-story floor plans, they differ in a few ways. For starters, ranch-style homes typically don’t share a wall with a neighbor. Additionally, it's common for patio homes to feature an open floor plan with large kitchens and living rooms, while L-shaped layouts are standard in ranch-style homes.
What Are the Benefits of Living in a Home Like This?
Patio homes offer buyers a simple and convenient homeowner experience. The primary benefits associated with owning these homes are:
Low maintenance: Due to their small footprint, patio homes typically require less annual maintenance and may even come with a homeowners' association. Sometimes, the HOA will take care of exterior maintenance and landscaping, saving residents time and effort in upkeep.
Single-level living: Most patio homes are designed as single-level dwellings, making them ideal for people who prefer to avoid stairs, including older adults and those with mobility issues.
Community atmosphere: Patio home communities typically foster a sense of neighborliness and provide opportunities for social interaction.
Cost-effective: Because they are smaller than traditional single-family homes and contain a compact floor plan, these homes can be more affordable than standard homes.
Amenities: Some patio home neighborhoods offer shared amenities and common areas, such as pools, clubhouses, and fitness centers, which can enhance residents' quality of life.
Energy efficiency: With a smaller footprint, these homes often have lower utility costs and may incorporate energy-efficient features.
Location: Patio homes are often found in desirable locations close to golf courses, shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
Outdoor space: Patio homes sometimes feature private outdoor spaces such as patios and gardens, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor living without the extensive maintenance of a large yard. Also, unlike condo owners, patio homeowners own the interior of their home and the lot it sits on.
Resale Value: Patio homes can have good resale value due to their appealing features and low-maintenance lifestyle, attracting many buyers, including retirees, young professionals, and small families.
These diverse benefits make patio homes an excellent option for various homeowners.
Who Are These Homes Best Suited For?
Anyone who appreciates a smaller living arrangement will love owning a garden home. These compact homes are great for retirees, empty nesters, and travel enthusiasts who want to deal with less maintenance and live in a peaceful setting.
Patio homes are also a smart option for first-time homebuyers. These properties are often more affordable than standard, detached homes, offering young buyers a cost-effective way to enter homeownership.
Downsides and Misconceptions
Some common misconceptions and potential downsides of patio homes include limited privacy, high HOA fees, lack of space, and a lack of amenities. However, each home is different, and experienced builders consider these qualities when designing and constructing them.
Today, it’s becoming increasingly common to find patio homes featuring fences, outdoor vanities, creative layouts, and other features to improve privacy. This creativity has also seeped into the interior of many patio homes, where clever floor plans and home design create ample space for homeowners.
Many HOA organizations are also affordable and very reasonable, with association fees allocated toward community amenities like swimming pools and fitness centers and services such as community landscaping and snow removal.
A Great Living Situation
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, a homeowner looking to downsize, or craving simplicity later in life, patio home living might be the perfect solution.
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Patio Homes FAQ
What are the main advantages of owning a patio home?
Many love patio homes for their low maintenance, affordability, and quaint charm. These compact properties are perfect for first-time homeowners, retirees, and others looking for an affordable and simple home-buying experience.
What is the difference between a garden home and a patio home?
There is no difference between a garden home and a patio home. Garden homes, patio homes, carriage homes, courtyard homes, and cluster homes are all terms to refer to a one or one-and-a-half-story property that shares a wall with a neighbor.
What are the disadvantages of a patio home?
Some may believe patio homes are disadvantageous because they lack space, privacy, or amenities. However, this is not always the case. Today, many professional homebuilders design patio homes while addressing these qualities by using creative layouts and features to create space, improve privacy, and add amenities.