Condos vs. Homes for Sale in Denton, TX - Which One to Buy?

According to recent reports, Homes for Sale in Denton, TX, have seen a 4.2% price increase over the last year. With this rise in the real estate market, many homeowners and prospective buyers are evaluating their options when purchasing a property. Two of the main choices include buying a condo or single-family home. 

Both condos and single-family homes have advantages and limitations, so choosing between these two popular types of residential property can be challenging.

7 Comparisons Between Condos and Homes for Sale in Denton, TX

1. Ownership

Condo and house ownership differ significantly depending on what you own.

Condo owners possess only their unit's interior. Common areas are shared. Houses grant full ownership of structure and land. Condo deeds cover individual units. HOAs control common spaces through master deeds. House owners get warranty deeds for complete property control.

Condo ownership can feel limiting. You can't freely modify shared spaces. Houses offer more freedom. You control all aspects of your property. This impacts resale value, too. Houses typically appreciate faster than condos.

2. Maintenance

Maintenance responsibilities vary greatly between condos and houses.

Condo owners pay HOA fees for exterior upkeep, while house owners handle all maintenance themselves. Condo living means no yard work or snow shoveling, while houses require personal time or hired help for these tasks. HOA fees for multifamily units usually range from $300-$309 monthly.

• Condo HOA fees cover:

• • • Exterior repairs
    • Roof maintenance
    • Common area utilities

• House maintenance costs:

• • ~$2,000 yearly for a 2,000 sq ft home
  • Unexpected major repairs (e.g., foundation issues)

Condo living means predictable monthly costs. Houses bring variable expenses. You might save money for some months. But big repairs can hit hard. Condos offer convenience. Houses give control. Your choice depends on lifestyle preferences and budget constraints.

3. Living Space

Living space differs greatly between condos and houses.

Houses generally offer more room to spread out. You'll find larger floor plans and outdoor areas. Condos have fixed dimensions with little room for growth. Want to expand? Houses let you build additions. Condos limit your options severely.

Renovating a condo? Expect hurdles. HOAs often restrict changes, and even interior work needs approval, which adds time and costs. Homeowners face fewer barriers. They control all aspects of their space. Want to knock down a wall? Go for it.

• Condo renovation challenges:

• • • HOA approval process
    • Restricted working hours
    • Limited contractor access

• House renovation benefits:

• • Full creative control
  • No shared wall concerns
  • Easier permitting process

Space needs vary by lifestyle. Large families often prefer houses, while singles or couples might find condos sufficient. When choosing, consider future needs. Houses offer more flexibility as life changes.

4. Privacy

Privacy levels differ significantly between condos and houses.

Houses provide more seclusion from neighbors. You control your surroundings. Condos mean living closer to others. Shared walls and common areas reduce privacy, and noise can be a major concern in condos.

Condo construction typically uses STC 50+ soundproofing between units, but impact noises still transfer. Houses require noise isolation class (NIC) equal to or over 45 rated assemblies per IBC.

• Common condo noise issues:

• • • Footsteps from above
    • Shared plumbing sounds
    • Voices through walls

• House privacy advantages:

• • Control over yard space
  • Distance from neighbors
  • Freedom for outdoor activities

Privacy needs vary by person. Some enjoy condo community life, while others prefer house seclusion. Consider your tolerance for neighbor proximity. Houses offer more buffer space and noise control.

5. Pet Policies

Pet ownership rules differ greatly between condos and houses.

While California law requires HOAs to allow at least one pet, Texas doesn't have such regulations, and it's up to the landlord or HOA to decide. The good thing is that most HOAs permit two pets. 

However, house owners face no such limits. HOAs typically restrict pets to 25 pounds or less. Some ban aggressive breeds, following city rules. Homeowners choose freely, within legal bounds.

Condo living can challenge pet owners. Space limits affect animal comfort, and shared walls mean noise concerns. Houses offer yards for pets, and neighbors are farther away, reducing complaints. Consider your pets' needs when choosing.

• Common condo pet rules:

• • • Leash requirements in common areas
    • Designated pet relief zones
    • Noise violation penalties

• House pet advantages:

• • Freedom to fence yard
  • Multiple pets allowed
  • Space for larger breeds

Pet lovers often prefer houses, as they offer more flexibility. Condos work for those with fewer, smaller pets. Always check specific HOA rules before buying, as they vary widely.

6. Investment

Condos and houses differ as investment properties.

Houses often appreciate faster due to land value growth. Condos cost less initially, attracting new investors. According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2024, condos gained 2.5% value, while houses jumped 4.2%. Land ownership drives this difference.

Houses offer more control over property value, and renovations directly impact worth. Condo values depend on building conditions. HOA decisions affect your investment. Consider market trends in your area.

• Condo investment pros:

• • • Lower maintenance costs
    • Easier to rent out
    • Good for urban markets

• House investment advantages:

• • Land value appreciation
  • More improvement options
  • Potential for additions

Investment goals matter when choosing. Condos suit those seeking passive income, while houses appeal to long-term value seekers. Consider your budget and market knowledge. Both can be profitable with proper management.

7. Insurance

Condo owners only need to insure their units' interiors, while the homeowners' association (HOA) covers insurance for the building's exterior and common areas. This means that condo owners typically have lower insurance costs compared to homeowners.

Homeowners must purchase property insurance, also known as homeowner's insurance or HO-3 policies, to cover the structure of their house as well as any other structures on the property, like a garage or fence. They are responsible for ensuring the full replacement value of the building and land. According to industry statistics, the average annual cost of an HO-3 policy in the United States is $1,411. In Texas specifically, the average HO-3 policy costs $2,146 per year.

On the other hand, condo owners need an HO-6 policy, which is a condominium unit owners' insurance policy. This policy mainly covers the interior of the individual unit and personal belongings. It does not cover the outside of the building or other common areas, which are insured by the condo association's master policy. Nationally, the average annual cost of an HO-6 policy is $488. On average, do owners living in Texas can pay around $771 per year for HO-6 coverage on average

Price Comparison Between Condos and Houses in Denton, TX:

Here’s the graphical representation of prices between condos and houses in Denton Texas. These ranges are taken from Realtor.com to give you a general idea:

Here’s the table representation of same data along with some more insights categorizing the condos and house comparison by price range, including the area and price ranges:

When comparing the houses and condos, a few key observations can be made:

1. Cost-Effectiveness:
   • Condos generally offer a more cost-effective option, particularly in the lowest price range, where options start as low as $199,900. This makes them attractive for buyers on a tighter budget.
   • Houses are more expensive, particularly in the medium and highest ranges. The starting price for houses in the highest range is significantly higher than that of condos, reaching over $1 million. But you have to be careful in evaluating a home's value due to such a large investment. This guide mentions a few factors to always consider.
2. Area Comparison:
   • Condos typically have a smaller area, with even the largest (1,922 sqft) falling short of the smallest houses in the medium range. This indicates that condos might be more suitable for individuals or small families who prioritize location or amenities over space.
   • Houses offer more space, with the highest range of houses exceeding 4,000 sqft. This makes them ideal for larger families or those desiring more living space.
3. Value for Space:
   • Regarding price per square foot, condos in the lowest range offer the most economical option. However, the space is also more limited.
   • Houses provide more space, which could offer better value for those who need or prefer larger homes. However, this comes at a significantly higher cost, especially in the medium to high price ranges.

Who Should Buy a Condo in Denton, TX?

First-Time Homebuyers:

• Why: Condos are typically cheaper than single-family homes, making them a good option for first-time homebuyers. They offer a manageable entry into the real estate market with fewer maintenance responsibilities.
• Features to Look For: Proximity to amenities like shopping, dining, and schools; affordable HOA fees; and manageable square footage.

Young Professionals and Students:

• Why: Denton is home to the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, making condos a practical choice for students and young professionals. Condos often provide modern amenities and are close to campus or business districts.
• Features to Look For: Proximity to the university or downtown areas, modern features, and community amenities like fitness centers or pools.

Empty Nesters or Downsizers:

• Why: Empty nesters or those looking to downsize might prefer condos due to their smaller size and reduced maintenance needs. Condos offer a simpler lifestyle while still providing comfort and amenities.
• Features to Look For: Single-level living options, low-maintenance exteriors, and access to community facilities like clubhouses or parks.

Who Should Buy a House in Denton, TX?

1. Growing Families

• Why: Houses are often more suitable for families due to their larger size and additional rooms. Denton's suburban environment offers a range of amenities and services geared toward families, such as parks, recreational facilities, and well-rated schools. The added space in a house allows for individual bedrooms for children, multiple bathrooms to reduce congestion, and outdoor areas for play and family gatherings.
• Features to Look For:
  • Multiple Bedrooms: Ensures sufficient space for children and home offices.
  • Large Yard: Provides outdoor play space and room for gardening or entertaining.
  • Proximity to Schools: Important for families with school-aged children, enhancing convenience and reducing commute times.
  • Family-Friendly Neighborhood: Consider areas with low crime rates and community-oriented amenities.

2. Long-Term Investors

• Why: Denton’s real estate market presents strong potential for long-term appreciation and rental income due to its growing economy and the presence of institutions like the University of North Texas. Investors seeking properties with the potential for steady cash flow or significant appreciation should consider houses in areas experiencing development or gentrification.
• Features to Look For:
  • Emerging Neighborhoods: Look for areas undergoing revitalization or development that may offer higher future returns.
  • Proximity to Major Employers or Universities: Properties close to employment hubs or educational institutions will likely attract renters or buyers, enhancing rental yield.
  • Property Condition: Evaluate the property's condition for potential renovation needs, which can impact investment returns.
  • Market Trends: Analyze local market trends and property values to assess long-term growth potential.

3. Homeowners Seeking More Space and Privacy

• Why: For those who value space and privacy, houses in Denton offer advantages over condos, such as larger lot sizes, private yards, and less noise from neighbors. The ability to customize and expand their living space according to personal preferences is a significant draw. Denton's suburban setting provides a more tranquil living environment than denser urban areas.
• Features to Look For:
  • Larger Lot Sizes: Provides more space for outdoor activities and potential for future expansions.
  • Customizable Home Features: Opportunities to renovate or personalize the home to meet individual preferences.
  • Privacy: Detached homes or properties with larger lots offer greater separation from neighbors, reducing noise and enhancing privacy.
  • Community Characteristics: Choose neighborhoods with features that align with personal lifestyle preferences, such as low traffic, green spaces, and a strong sense of community.

AY Realty Can Help You Purchase Any Kind of Property, From Condos to Houses and Beyond:

Whether you are looking for a condo, single-family home, or any other residential or commercial property, the experienced agents at AY Realty can assist you in finding homes for sale in Denton Tx. Our team members have expertise in analyzing property details, conducting competitive market research, and negotiating deals on behalf of clients. We aim to make this significant investment as simple and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our licensed professionals.