What type of property would be best fit?

When you think of the ideal home, do you envision a detached, single-family house with a big lawn? Many people associate this image with homeownership, but the best fit for you might be a historic townhome on a tree-lined street or a penthouse overlooking a city skyline.

Choosing the right property depends on your situation and goals. Your Realtor can help you find a home that fits your needs and help you understand what is involved in purchasing and owning property. Here are two types of property your Realtor might suggest:

• Condos: You enjoy many of the same benefits from owning a condo as you do a single-family home. You can deduct your mortgage interest and property taxes from your federal income taxes if you itemize, and you increase personal wealth while building equity.

With a condo, you avoid some of the maintenance and upkeep issues that come with a house. You’ll pay a monthly condo association fee for that convenience, but you won’t have to mow the yard, water or replace the plants, paint the exterior or perform other tasks associated with owning a single-family house. Your association fee also goes toward repairs and routine maintenance. Remember, this money keeps the property well maintained and protects its value.

You may also get to enjoy amenities like a pool, clubhouse or workout room. If a property has amenities you don’t think you’ll use, you might want to look elsewhere. Condo association fees vary greatly. Generally, more upkeep means higher fees.

Don’t forget that condominiums often share walls. Living in close contact with your neighbors has advantages and drawbacks. Be realistic with yourself when you decide if a condo is a good choice. Also, don’t assume that a condo will cost less than a detached house. There are upscale condos and inexpensive houses, just like there are upscale houses and inexpensive condos.

• Multifamily: Duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes are another option. Though some own small multifamily properties solely for investment purposes, others purchase a property, live in one of the units and rent out the others. You may decide you like this arrangement solely for the financial aspects of it, or it may work well if you have a relative or friend that you’d like to have living nearby. In this scenario, remember that you are not only a homeowner, but a landlord, too. That comes with benefits (a monthly rent check, equity that continues to build) and responsibilities (making repairs, finding tenants).

Regardless of what a property is commonly called — condo, co-op, loft apartment, townhome, garden home — it’s important to know what legal definitions and documents govern the purchase and ownership of the property. It’s equally important to know what those definitions and documents mean when it comes to your continued expenses and the rights of ownership you will enjoy.

For information about buying or renting property in Houston or across the state of Texas, visit HAR.com.