Townhouses and Brownstones

Townhouses and Brownstones are freestanding 2-5 story buildings often constructed before the war. Brownstones are more elegant, featuring elaborate decorative facades and many other architectural details inside. Townhouses tend to be plainer with somewhat smaller living spaces (although be careful as the terms are often used interchangeably). These types of buildings are traditionally occupied by families or well-established individuals who prefer the more private and comfortable living environment. The actual buildings can vary from narrow and low-rise two unit row houses to large and elaborate brownstones that if not divided into units can have a living area of up to 10,000 sq. ft. Similarly the prices of these types of buildings differ dramatically depending on location, size, condition as well as their legal status.

ADVANTAGES		DISADVANTAGES
Comfort and privacy of your own home No approval process Larger living spaces / usually multi-level Total control over maintenance and improvement issues Easier to re-sell or transfer deeds than condos or co-ops		Significantly higher purchasing price on per sq. ft. basis Higher monthly living costs, i.e: utilities, taxes, etc More legal and financial responsibilities and obligations i.e: zoning codes, taxes, higher mortgages Maintenance related issues

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