Patio homes and townhomes are often considered the same thing, although in strict real estate terms, a townhome is a denser property type, always attached to another home on one or both sides of the home. Townhomes share walls with the neighbors. Patio homes, by definition, are always separated and considered a type of single-family home. By design, both provide developers a way to increase home sales within large tracts of land with multiple price points. Both patio homes and townhomes can be one or two-story in height, with the majority in Tucson being of the one-story variety.
Living in a Tucson patio home community is different from living in a single-family home because the homes are so close together. The differences that are important to understand in order to see if this type of home ownership is for you.
Many townhome and patio home neighborhoods are gated, especially on the northwest side of Tucson and in the Catalina Foothills. If you are a winter resident, this offers added protection while away during the summers, and for all residents, a measure of security and privacy.
Patio homes and townhomes nearly always provide residents with a community pool and other community areas. If used, these are attractive perks, provided at a fraction of the cost otherwise associated with the amenity.
