Is a Townhouse the Smarter Way to Buy a Home in Suffolk County?
By Will Savino
Licensed NYS Real Estate Salesperson | Patriot Real Properties
I’ve been in enough houses over the years to know that bigger isn’t always better. And owning a detached house isn’t necessarily the right move for everybody.
I’m a real estate salesperson, but I’m also a contractor and real estate investor. I’ve renovated homes, looked at properties that needed everything, and seen firsthand how much time and money goes into maintaining a house.
So when somebody tells me they’re looking to buy on Long Island, I usually ask what they’re really looking for.
Is it more space? A garage? A place to entertain? Less yard work? Something they can enjoy without spending every weekend fixing things?
Because depending on the answers, a townhouse might be worth considering.
The Price of the House Is Only Part of the Story
Let’s face it. Buying a home in Suffolk County isn’t cheap.
Between the purchase price, property taxes, insurance, utilities and ongoing maintenance, buyers have a lot to think about.
And that’s before something breaks.
As a contractor, I can tell you that roofs, siding, driveways, landscaping and exterior repairs all cost money. Some years, you might not have much to do.
Other years, you can find yourself writing some pretty big checks.
That’s one reason I encourage buyers to look beyond the listing price and understand what they’re actually taking on.
A townhouse can offer a different arrangement.
Depending on the community, certain exterior maintenance, landscaping, snow removal and shared amenities may be covered through a homeowners association.
Of course, you’re paying an HOA fee for those services. That’s why it’s important to look at the total monthly cost, what the fee includes, the association’s financial condition and any potential assessments.
But for some buyers, having certain maintenance responsibilities handled by an association can be appealing.
You Might Be Surprised by How Much Space You Get
I think some people hear the word “townhouse” and immediately picture something small.
That’s not always the case.
Take my listing at 40 Eagle Circle in Bohemia, for example.
This property has approximately 1,801 square feet, two bedrooms, a loft, two full bathrooms and a half bath.
There’s an attached garage, cathedral ceilings, a spacious primary suite and plenty of room to make the home your own.
It’s a good example of why I tell buyers not to rule out an entire category of homes before seeing what’s available.
Sometimes a property that wasn’t originally on your list turns out to have exactly what you need.
There’s Something to Be Said for Less Maintenance
I’ve worked on enough properties to appreciate what goes into keeping a home in good condition.
Some people love working in the yard, handling repairs and making improvements.
Others would rather spend their weekends doing something else.
Neither approach is wrong.
But it’s worth thinking about before you buy.
If you’re moving from a larger home, you may not want the same maintenance responsibilities you’ve had for years.
If you’re purchasing your first property, you may appreciate having certain shared maintenance services managed through an association.
The important thing is understanding which responsibilities belong to you and which belong to the association.
This is where I think buyers need to be careful.
A townhouse isn’t automatically cheaper than a detached house.
You have to compare the purchase price, taxes, HOA fees, insurance, utilities and maintenance costs.
You also need to understand the association’s rules, reserve funds and whether any special assessments are planned.
But when you compare the complete picture, a townhouse may be a practical option that deserves serious consideration.
For some buyers, it provides the living space they want without the same level of individual exterior upkeep.
And that’s worth exploring.
Let’s Talk About 40 Eagle Circle
One of the reasons I like showing this property is that it challenges some of the assumptions people make about townhouse living.
Located in The Preserve in Bohemia, this home offers approximately 1,801 square feet of living space, a loft, an attached garage and access to community amenities, including a pool.
The home also has central air, natural gas, an eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and a primary suite with a separate shower and jacuzzi tub.
The asking price is $649,999, subject to confirmation of current listing status and price.
It’s not going to be the right home for everybody. No property is.
But if you’ve been looking at detached houses and haven’t found what you want, I’d encourage you to take a look.
You may find that a townhouse gives you a combination of space, convenience and lifestyle that you hadn’t considered.
Before You Rule Anything Out, Let’s Talk
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving out of a larger property or just looking for something different, I’d be happy to help you look at the options.
I can show you 40 Eagle Circle, walk you through the property and help you understand what questions to ask before making a decision.
Buying a home is a big commitment.
I’d rather see you find the right property for your life and your budget than buy something simply because it’s what you thought you were supposed to have.
Will Savino
Licensed NYS Real Estate Salesperson
Patriot Real Properties
631.889.9080
Featured Property: 40 Eagle Circle, Bohemia, NY 11716
Patriot Real Properties
34 East Main St #346, Smithtown, NY 11787
Equal Housing Opportunity
Property details, HOA fees, taxes and availability are subject to verification. Financing and affordability depend on each buyer’s individual circumstances. HOA coverage and obligations should be reviewed through current association documents.
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