I would like to get your opinion on something…
Would you rather live in a home with a yard or a townhome with a little green space?
You may know I sold my Ft. Worth home last summer. Here are some pics from a D Magazine article, My Ft. Worth Home in D Home and I would be lying if I told you I don’t miss the big yard, pool and space.
I bought a lot to build on but honestly I don’t have time. So, I’ve been weighing two options: purchasing a moderate sized home with a yard or a townhome that’s easy because it’s “lock ‘n leave”.
By the way, I’m looking forward to sharing some of my remodeling and decorating ideas right here. But for now, my question:
Which would you prefer, a home with a yard or a “lock ‘n leave” townhome?
There are a few pics of properties I’ve visited.
A single story ranch that needs updating…
The interior of a really sleek townhome that needs…nothing!
A darling bungalow that’s already updated!
Which option would you prefer?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts,
The Bungalow! It has lots of Character! It has the “Real Jane” look. The Townhome looks “Plain Jane.” Not you. The ranch is just “Yuk!” LOL
Lol, thanks Steve!
Jane,
My opinion as to which home I would choose is somewhat tainted inasmuch as I am “older” and am not inclined to deal with maintenance issues and other issues related to home ownership. Thus, a somewhat “maintenance free” town home would be my choice. There are other factors which you might want to weigh. Will you have pets? Do you need a larger garage? Will you be planting a garden?
As busy as you are, you may not be able to spend as much time (and enjoy life) in a home with a large yard as you might like. I would recommend the town house route. If it doesn’t work out, or if you so dearly miss home ownership, you could likely sell it (for a profit in this market).
My best to you!
Stuart
Thanks Stuart!
You never did say what location. Downtown Grapevine is Beautiful.
Jane, if I were you, I would pick the property with the least upkeep because of your busy schedule. Move into something already updated. A townhome seems like the best option, because of minimal upkeep for you. Also the amenities with a townhome are usually well worth it, compared to having to deal with those in a single home. The updated bungalow is enticing, but if it has some age on it, there will always be work. I am also trying to decide if a townhome or building new, is next on our agenda. With owning a single home, there is always work to do, no matter the age. “Lock and leave” sounds nice!
Yes it does sort of Cindy! Thanks
I am looking myself as we are moving from Austin back to Dallas. We like having a yard for a couple of reasons…we have young kids, we don’t want to be right next to our neighbors, and we might want a pool someday. Now if I was older, I could see the appeal of no yard, unless you like to work in the yard. I like to feel like I can breathe and a big yard makes me feel better. I don’t think you have time for updating and I think you would like a little yard vs no yard just from seeing pictures of your previous home. Out of your choices, I can see you in the bungalow that needs no updating. Very cute! Have fun and good luck!
Thank you Katrina, and best to you!
townhome!!!
Thanks Denice:)
Hummm. . . tough one. . . since your working a lot . .updating is time comsumning . . I would say cute Bungalow. .
I think your home should make a statement about where you are in your life. You have good taste Jane . . so whatever you choose will be beautiful, and the colors magnificent.
Home is your retreat from the “Outside World “. . . you will make it uniquely your own
Good Luck and Happy Shopping
THanks Tony!!
The only drawback to a Townhome would be the design (common walls) and the fact you can’t choose your neighbors. I would prefer the bungalow with yard…
Good point DT, thanks
You’ve had the magnificent home with 12′ entry doors, landscaped yard, pool & “magazine perfect” Southwest decor! So right now, IMHO, I would choose the townhome that’s sleek, new & ready for your current RealJane adventures!!
Thanks Jeanne!
The bungalow is adorable!!! I’m like you and experiencing empty nest syndrome. We have an acre in Rowlett with a pool and lots of trees. While I would really like to downsize to a townhome there is just something about coffee on the deck surrounded by flowers and not being able to see the neighbors that keeps me here. We’ve been going through the same debate and listing pros and cons. The bungalow to me seems a perfect middle ground.
I’m kind of there too Kathi, thanks!
I think the peace and tranquility of a home with a large lot or, preferably, a home on a country lot provides an escape from the rat race of the city. We could all use more peace and quiet. As far as yard work goes…you can find plenty of landscapers and lawncare companies that will be happy to do it for you!
THanks Beth!
Where are they…… in real estate, it’s all about LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Is it Colleyville, S. Dallas, Highland Park or S. Fort Worth. If you post that, it will make the choice so much easier…..
Jane,
The darling bungalow has the grand curb appeal of even some of our coveted Highland Park’s largest estates. Charm, Style, Turn Key Purchase… what more could you ask for?!? It appears to be quite homey and perhaps a bit chic at the same time. I’m quite sure you could have a custom spa or pond installed in the small greenspace to help add tranquility to the outdoor area, as well as a place for relaxation outdoors. A place to unwind with a glass of wine at the end of the day or even meditate. If you can find the time of course…
Kindest Regards,
Amanda Knox
I’ve done all three, moving from a big home with a large yard and pool to a townhome. The first few months, I loved the convenience of no maintenance and “lock and leave”. It didn’t take long though for my soul to start craving at least a little private green space. There’s a lot to be said about having a small water feature, beautiful potted plants and a quiet place to have a glass of wine or morning coffee in your robe. Whatever you decide, I’m sure it will be beautiful and I can’t wait to follow what you do with it! Happy house hunting!
I love the comfy cozy look of the bungalow. I much prefer to have more privacy and my trees. That is if I can pay someone to keep the yard looking picture perfect. Bungalow looks like a place of comfort!
You already mentioned that you miss your backyard so while the townhouse is enticing, the lack of a yard is not. I would guess with your busy schedule you will not have time for a full blown remodel so that narrows it down to the cute bungalow. Its smaller which is what you wanted/needed; you can hire people for the yard work since you don’t have time and yet you will have some private green space to get away from the world when you are home.
The Bungalow without a doubt.
It is not too big, but yet not to small.
You can still add the perfect size pool, should you decide to. I am living in a condo now, and THE NOISE….. I can’t wait to own my own little bungalow, after selling my large home on acerage.
I learned to drive a John Deere Tractor, and it was not really my thing.
It is cute Angie! Appreciate all the interest:)
Jane I would certainly go with a condo. You aren’t responsible for so much with your busy schedule! I mentioned to my sister how much I miss you and she told me she has seen you on Facebook (I’m not on facebook) I have wondered and wondered how you are doing. What a ___t thing Channel five did and wouldn’t let you come back is that true? EVERYONE I know at Channel five has done the same (too much wine) Whom among us should throw the first stone.; You were always a favorite of mine….I would see you from time to time at Colonial CC and your son. I wonder where he is now and how old. I think of you and so do so many people…you are a sweetheart so remember that!
Aww thanks so much Nancy:)
I love the bungalow with a smaller yard.
I can see the appeal of all three, but I think you would love being able to put your touch on the ranch. I love the look of it and the yard. I think you would turn it into an amazing property and you would have plenty of room for your son and his friends.
Thanks for the feedback:)