Looking for a new place to call home? Whether you're a first-time buyer, upgrading, downsizing,
or searching for something unique, understanding your options is the first step.
This guide breaks down the most common types of homes
—from single-family houses and condos to townhomes, duplexes, and acreages—
so you can find the one that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Explore the pros and cons of each, and discover which style of home is right for you.

Story-and-a-Half

This style has a deep pitched roof and clean, simple design. Dormers can be added to a pitched roof to add windows or usable space on the upper level.

Split Level

Also called a split entry, this home style typically has two short sets of stairs running up and down from the point of entry. It may or may not have living space at entry level

Single-Level

Also called a split entry, this home. Also referred to as a bungalow, a single-level house is known for a long, low design with all or most living space on ground level. Most have a basement level which may be finished into additional living space. A lower level walk-out includes a door to the exterior

Two-Story Home

A two-story home has two full levels of living space. A traditional two story will have a ground level with an often equally sized floor directly above. Often you will find living space on the ground level, with the main suite and additional bedrooms on the second floor. There may also be a basement level.

Condominium

An owned unit in a large property complex that consists of many individual units. Often has a fee that covers shared monthly expenses for the upkeep of the building and facilities.

Townhouse

An owned unit in a row of houses all attached to one another. Often has a condominium fee that covers shared monthly expenses for the upkeep of the exterior and any shared facilities..

Semi-Detached

This home has two single-family dwellings that are separated by one common wall and have mirror image layouts. Twin homes typically have two separate street addresses and can be owned by two different homeowners. Since outdoor maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowners, it is important to consider shared expenses that may need to be addressed, such as house siding, windows and upkeep of common spaces like the yard or shared driveway.

Duplex

A duplex is a home consisting of two separate dwellings that are either side by side or stacked on top of each other. They typically have identical layouts or a mirror image of each other. A duplex typically has one street address with unit numbers and one property owner.

You’ve heard it before: buying a home may
be the largest purchase you will ever make.
Does that make you nervous? Consider this:
it can also be one of the best investments
you will ever make. 

There are lots of things a potential buyer can do to get
a feel for a property by simply utilizing the tools that are
available online. Your RE/MAX agent is a great resource
to lean on, as they often have lots of information on the
property that may not be included in the MLS listing
description...

When you’re ready to make an offer, your RE/MAX
agent will prepare the required paperwork and
negotiate the purchase price and terms on your
behalf, but there are a few things you’ll need to
do as well...

By familiarizing yourself with these homebuying basics, you’ll be better
equipped to make informed decisions and a wise investment.