Detached Condos vs Single-Family Homes: What’s Best for You?
When considering buying a home in Santa Clarita, especially in new communities like FivePoint Valencia, you may come across a growing trend: detached condominiums. Lately, we’ve had home-buying clients who were surprised to learn about detached condos, sometimes unsure about the how they compare to traditional single-family homes. So, what are the key differences between a detached condo and a traditional single-family home? And more importantly, how do you decide which type of home fits your lifestyle best?
Keep scrolling as we break it all down for you.
Lark – 3 Story Detached Condos
Peak – 3 Story Detached Condos
What is a Detached Condo?
A detached condominium is a freestanding home within a planned community, but unlike a traditional house, it may or may not sit on an individually owned lot. That’s why it’s important to verify this information before making a purchase. For examples of three story detached condos, take a look at our detailed report on the Lark neighborhood. For two story condos, check out Clover, both are neighborhoods are in FivePoint Valencia.
Here are some key features of detached condos:
- Two or three stories: In three-story models, the main living area is often located on the second floor. However, in most two-story models, the primary living space is on the first floor with the bedrooms up top.
- Yards: Some have only have patios and/or balconies, while others have yards similar to a traditional home.
- Maintenance: Some detached condos have no personal responsibility for front yard or common area upkeep. Once again, this is not always true, so be sure to verify.
While these detached homes often offer plenty of interior space and modern conveniences, they don’t always provide the same outdoor lifestyle as is common with a traditional single-family home.
Traditional two Story Home
Traditional Single Story
What is a Traditional Single-Family Home?
A traditional single-family residence (SFR) is what most people think of when they imagine a house. Of course, there are exceptions, but these homes usually sit on privately owned lots, providing more autonomy over the property.
Key characteristics of traditional single-family homes:
- One or two stories, with the main living area on the ground floor.
- Private yards, some with lush green lawns, flowers, and trees.
- Outdoor space for kids, pets, and entertaining. Some homeowners even install built-in swimming pools and hot tubs.
- An irrigation system to maintain landscaping.
- More privacy, as it is common for these homes to be spaced farther apart.
For buyers who prioritize outdoor space, privacy, and a home with a true yard, a single-family home is the better choice.
Key Differences to Consider
When deciding between a detached condo and a traditional single-family residence, it’s important to consider how each option aligns with your lifestyle.
Outdoor Space
- Detached Condo: Some do not have a private backyard, just a patio or balcony. Others have do have their own yards.
- Traditional SFR: Usually come with a backyard for gardening, pets, or play areas.
Home Layout
- Detached Condo: In three-story models, the main living space is often on the second floor. Two-story models typically have the main living area on the first floor.
- Traditional SFR: Living area typically on the ground floor for easy access.
Stairs & Accessibility
- Detached Condo: Two or three stories, meaning more stairs—something to consider if you have young kids, mobility concerns, or don’t want to carry groceries upstairs.
- Traditional SFR: Most single-story homes have no stairs, making them more accessible.
Maintenance
- Detached Condo: Depending on the neighborhood, the HOA may handle most exterior maintenance and landscaping. Buyers are advised to verify their responsibilities in advance.
- Traditional SFR: Homeowners are usually responsible for their own yard upkeep, which includes mowing, watering, and gardening.
Privacy & Noise
- Detached Condo: Homes are usually closer together, which can mean more noise from neighbors.
- Traditional SFR: Typically, there is more distance between homes which allows for increased privacy.
Community Feel & HOA Rules
- Detached Condo: Typically part of a planned community with shared amenities like pools, parks, and walking trails—but also HOA rules and fees.
- Traditional SFR: Many of these homes are also part of an HOA, but generally there’s more autonomy over your property, but also more responsibility for maintenance.
NOTE: In Santa Clarita, single family homes in most newer communities are also master-planned with HOA amenities, but there are still plenty of neighborhoods with no HOA. Visit our Communities page for links to neighborhood guides, where we indicate if there is an HOA and/or Mello Roos.
Where Are These Detached Condos Found?
The trend of condos and townhomes is especially strong in FivePoint Valencia, one of the newest master-planned communities in Santa Clarita. However, the new Tesoro Highlands community, also master-planned—consists of single-family homes, as do the new homes in Williams Ranch.
If you’re exploring new construction, be sure to visit our dedicated page for the latest brand-new housing developments in Santa Clarita!
Interesting Fact: So far, out of approximately 25 new home subdivisions in FivePoint Valencia, only 4 or 5 offer traditional single-family homes—and 3 of those are high-end luxury homes. This means that for most buyers shopping for new construction, detached or attached condos and attached townhomes will be the most common option.
Photo Gallery of Various Home Types
Take a look at some of our recent photos showcasing the different types of homes commonly found in Santa Clarita. There’s much more to explore! We invite you to dive into our detailed neighborhood reports, where you’ll find plenty of photos and videos for a closer look.
Which One is Right for You?
The decision between a detached condo and a traditional single-family home ultimately comes down to lifestyle and priorities. Ask yourself:
- Do I want a yard for pets, kids, or entertaining? Go with a traditional home or a detached condo with more outdoor space.
- Do I prefer a low-maintenance home with HOA-covered landscaping? A detached condo may be better .
- Can I handle stairs every day? Detached condos (especially three-story models) often require more climbing . Try looking at single story homes or perhaps a less costly single story townhome. Yes, there are plenty of those home types in established neighborhoods such as Discovery, Heritage or Sunrise neighborhoods.
- How much privacy do I need? SF homes usually offer more space between neighbors.
- Do I prefer a planned community with amenities? Detached condos often include shared recreation areas, but many newer single-family home communities and most Valencia neighborhoods do as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s no right or wrong answer when choosing between a detached condo and a traditional single-family home. It all depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and long-term goals. If you’re searching for a home in Santa Clarita and need help finding the right fit, The Gregory Real Estate Group is here to guide you through the process.
LOCAL REALTORS® Matt & Meray Gregory
Contact Matt & Meray
As local REALTORS®, Brokers AND life long Santa Clarita residents, we have the expertise & local knowledge to help when it’s time to buy or sell your home.
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