Different Types of Houses and Which One is For You?

 

Types of Houses

 

• Townhouse
   
• Condo
   
• Single-Family Home
   
• Farmhouse
   
• Bungalow
   
• Cape Cod Style
   
• Co-operative Housing
   
• Tiny Home
   
• Apartment
   
• Mid-Century Modern
   
• Ranch-Style
   
• Colonial
   
• Ranch
   
• Victorian
   
• Cottage
   
• Craftsman Style
   
• Modular Building
   
• Mediterranean
   
• Tudor Revival Architecture
   
• Cabin
   
• Cottage Style
   
• Greek Revival
   
• Mobile Home
   
• Multi-Family Homes

 

Townhouse

Photo credit: Architectural Digest

A townhouse is a tall, narrow home that shares one or two walls with the houses next to it. These homes are usually built in rows, so each unit looks similar on the outside. Townhouses often have two or three floors, giving families more living space than an apartment. Because they share walls, they take up less land than a single-family home, which can make them more affordable in cities. Many townhouses also have small yards or patios, offering some private outdoor space without a lot of upkeep.

Condo

Photo credit: Hudson Condos

A condo, short for condominium, is a private unit inside a larger building or community. You own the inside of your unit, but share common spaces such as hallways, lobbies, pools, or gyms with other residents. Condos are often found in cities where space is limited. They usually cost less than single-family homes but come with monthly fees for building maintenance and shared services. Condos are great for people who want to own property but prefer low maintenance living.

 

Single-Family Home

Photo credit: BSB Design

A single-family home is a standalone house built on its own piece of land. It does not share walls with any other home. These houses often have their own yard, driveway, and sometimes a garage. Because there are no shared walls, single-family homes usually offer more privacy and space than condos or townhouses. They’re great for families who want more room to grow, more control over their property, and fewer shared rules with neighbors.

 

Farmhouse

Photo credit: Dwello

A farmhouse is a home built with a simple, practical design, often found in rural or countryside areas. Traditionally, these houses were built on farms to house the farmers and their families. Farmhouses usually feature large front porches, spacious kitchens, and open living areas. They are designed for comfort and function, often using natural materials like wood or stone. Modern farmhouses keep the classic look but include updated features for today’s living.

 

Bungalow

Photo credit: Julie Mannell Photography

A bungalow is a small, single-story house with a simple layout. These homes are easy to move around in because there are no stairs, making them great for families with young children or older adults. Bungalows often have wide front porches, low-pitched roofs, and open floor plans. They’re known for being cozy, easy to maintain, and offering a comfortable living space on one level.

 

Cape Cod Style

Photo credit: Homes and Gardens

A Cape Cod style house is a simple, charming home first built in New England during the 1600s. It’s usually one or one-and-a-half stories tall with a steep roof, dormer windows, and a central chimney. These homes are often symmetrical, with a front door in the middle and windows on each side. Cape Cod homes are known for their cozy feel and classic look. Modern versions may include updated layouts but keep the same timeless style.

 

Co-operative Housing

Photo credit: Vancity Community Investment Bank

Co-operative housing, or “co-op” housing, is a type of property where you don’t directly own your unit. Instead, you buy shares in a corporation that owns the entire building. Those shares give you the right to live in a specific apartment or unit. Everyone in the co-op shares responsibility for costs, maintenance, and decision-making about the property. Co-ops can be more affordable than condos but often have stricter rules about who can buy and how units can be used.

 

Tiny Home

Photo credit: Zook Cabins

A tiny home is a very small house, usually between 100 and 400 square feet. These homes are designed to make the most of every inch of space, often using clever storage and multi-purpose furniture. Some tiny homes are built on wheels so they can be moved, while others are placed on permanent foundations. They cost less to build or buy, use less energy, and are perfect for people who want a simpler lifestyle with fewer expenses.

 

Apartment

Photo credit: Bloomberg

An apartment is a housing unit inside a larger building with multiple units. You rent or lease the space from a landlord rather than owning it. Apartments can range from small studios to large multi-bedroom layouts. Residents share common areas such as hallways, laundry rooms, and sometimes gyms or pools. Apartments are popular in cities because they’re more affordable and easier to maintain than owning a house. They’re a great option for people who want flexibility or shorter-term living arrangements.

 

 Mid-Century Modern

Photo credit: Philly Mag

Mid-century modern houses became popular between the 1940s and 1960s. They are known for their clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows that bring in natural light. These homes often blend indoor and outdoor spaces with sliding glass doors, patios, and low-pitched roofs. Materials like wood, glass, and steel are common in their design. Mid-century modern homes are great for people who like a sleek, simple style with lots of light and open space.

 

Ranch-Style

Photo credit: Log Home

A ranch-style house is a single-story home with a long, low layout. It often has an open floor plan, large windows, and an attached garage. These homes became popular in the mid-20th century for their simple design and easy access to outdoor spaces like patios or backyards. Ranch-style houses are great for families and older adults because everything is on one level, making them easy to move around in and maintain.

 

Colonial

Photo credit: Architectural Digest

Colonial houses are inspired by the homes built in America during the 1600s and 1700s. They usually have a symmetrical design with evenly spaced windows, a central front door, and a simple rectangular shape. Many Colonial homes have two or more stories, with bedrooms upstairs and living spaces downstairs. This style is known for its classic, timeless appearance and formal layout, making it popular in both historic and modern neighborhoods.

 

Ranch

Photo credit: Siwash Lake

Ranch houses, sometimes just called “ranch,” are single-story homes with a long, low profile. They often feature open floor plans, large windows, and easy access to outdoor areas like patios or gardens. Ranch homes became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century because of their simple design and practicality. They are ideal for families or anyone who prefers one-level living with straightforward layouts.

 

Victorian

Photo credit: Opple House

Victorian houses are known for their ornate and decorative designs, popular during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century. These homes often feature steep roofs, decorative trim, large bay windows, and wrap-around porches. They can have multiple stories and intricate floor plans. Victorian houses are perfect for people who love historic charm, detailed craftsmanship, and unique architectural features.

 

Cottage

Photo credit: Cottage and Bungalows Mag

A cottage is a small, cozy house, often found in rural or semi-rural areas. Cottages usually have a simple design with a warm, welcoming feel. They often feature pitched roofs, small porches, and charming details like shutters or flower boxes. Cottages are perfect for people who want a comfortable, low-maintenance home with a homey, inviting atmosphere.

 

Craftsman Style

Photo credit: James Hardie

Craftsman-style houses are known for their attention to detail and use of natural materials like wood and stone. They often have low-pitched roofs, wide front porches with thick columns, and exposed beams inside. These homes focus on handcrafted elements and simple, functional design. Craftsman-style houses are ideal for people who appreciate quality workmanship, charm, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

 

Modular Building

Photo credit: Unit Bud

A modular building is a house constructed using pre-made sections, called modules, that are built in a factory and then transported to the site. These homes can be single or multi-story and are assembled quickly compared to traditional homes. Modular houses are often more affordable and environmentally friendly because of efficient construction methods. They offer flexibility in design, allowing homeowners to customize layouts and finishes while still saving time and money.

 

Mediterranean

Photo credit: Ocala

Mediterranean houses are inspired by homes found in countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece. They usually feature stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, arched doorways, and large outdoor spaces such as courtyards or balconies. These homes are designed to keep cool in warm climates and often include open, airy layouts. Mediterranean-style houses are perfect for people who love bright, sun-filled spaces and a relaxed, elegant feel.

 

Tudor Revival Architecture

Photo credit: Boss Design Center

Tudor Revival houses are inspired by medieval English homes and became popular in the early 20th century. They often feature steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, tall, narrow windows, and brick or stone exteriors. Inside, these homes may have cozy fireplaces and exposed wooden beams. Tudor Revival houses are ideal for people who appreciate classic, storybook-style architecture with charming, historic details.

 

Cabin

Photo credit: Buffalo River

A cabin is a small, simple house usually built from wood, often found in rural, forested, or mountainous areas. Cabins are designed for practicality and comfort, making them ideal for vacation homes or retreats. They often feature a rustic style with exposed beams, wood paneling, and sometimes a fireplace. Cabins are perfect for people who enjoy nature, cozy interiors, and a quiet, peaceful lifestyle.

 

Greek Revival

Photo credit: HGTV

Greek Revival houses are inspired by ancient Greek architecture and became popular in the 19th century. They often feature tall columns, symmetrical shapes, pediments, and bold, simple lines. These homes usually have two stories and a formal, stately appearance. Greek Revival houses are ideal for people who appreciate classical architecture and a grand, elegant look for their home.

 

Mobile Home

Photo credit: Home Nation

A mobile home is a prefabricated house built in a factory and designed to be transportable. These homes can be placed on leased land in a mobile home park or on private property. Mobile homes are often more affordable than traditional houses and can be set up quickly. They are a practical option for people who want homeownership without the higher cost of building a traditional house.

 

Multi-Family Homes

Photo credit: Be Better Blog

Multi-family homes are buildings designed to house multiple separate families in individual units. Examples include duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes. Each unit usually has its own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom, but the units share walls or floors. Multi-family homes are ideal for investors who want rental income or families looking to live close together while maintaining separate living spaces.