So you’re ready to buy a house. Exciting, right? But sometimes that excitement can turn into some nerves too as you start thinking of everything you need to factor into your decision.

There’s a lot to consider when buying a home including: location, size, area, amenities, features, maintenance, utility costs and the list goes on and on.

So what’s a buyer to do? A great option that can relieve a lot of stress is considering a townhome.

Over the last few decades townhome living has become increasingly popular with more first time home buyers and young families moving to these types of homes.

On the surface, it may seem like it’s simply a cost decision, but townhome living has a lot to offer for a variety of reasons.

Here are five reasons why townhome living may be the perfect solution for you:

#1: Community and Convenience
Most townhome communities have common areas, like parks and trails which are a great place to meet new neighbors and hang out. And that’s just the start! Townhome communities are designed with today’s busy lifestyles in mind so they are close to retail, school and other amenities.

With a townhome, you usually maintain your ideal lifestyle while staying within your preferred location. You can get that urban feel without having to live right in the heart of a city. You’re far enough from downtown that you can get some peace and quiet, but still close enough to hop in the car (or take Uber or even public transit) and hit the city when you want.

Townhomes are located in close proximity, which naturally creates an opportunity where you can get to know your neighbors.

Even with the close knit community feel, everyone still has plenty of personal space. While you have the benefit of neighbors close by, you can choose your level of engagement in your community.

#2. Low Maintenance Living
Homeownership comes with a whole list of tasks that need to be taken care of on a regular basis. But what if you could get all of the benefits of owning your own home without the hassle of extensive upkeep?

By design, townhomes require less maintenance. And we all know that maintenance takes up a lot of time over the course of a month or a year.

Owning a single family home can mean weekends spent mowing the lawn, tending to gardens, shoveling snow, repainting siding and so much more. Imagine having the free time to do all the things you actually want to do instead of being saddled down with the responsibilities of yard work.

#3. Smart, Modern Design
Hands down one of the best facets of townhome living is that many of them are designed as smart homes with the latest technology integrated throughout.

New townhomes offer modern design, smart technologies and better features than you would usually find in a resale home. The house is move in ready so you’re not spending the next two years (or more) renovating. Instead of spending your weekends at the big box home improvement store, you’ll be out having fun and relaxing.

Townhome floor plans are designed to take advantage of any possible wasted square footage, and the multi-level floor plans offers more functional and versatile rooms that can be customized to your needs. Additionally, floor plans include high ceilings and large windows that pull in natural light and create a bright and inviting space.

#4. Cost Savings
Townhomes are generally a more attainable option for first time buyers as they are more affordable than a single family home. A townhome gives you the feeling of “home” that you don’t necessarily get in a condo without the cost of a single family home.

From a long-term savings standpoint, you’ll see reduced utility costs in a townhome.  Not just because of the square footage, but having a shared wall can actually work in your favor towards reducing the costs of heating and cooling your home.

#5. Increased Security
Townhomes, simply by design and build, offer a greater sense of security due to being surrounded by neighbors. Your neighbors have a vested interest in keeping the neighborhood safe.

Due to the community nature of townhouses, it’s easier to recognize when things are out of the ordinary. Noticing suspicious activities is more likely because both you and your neighbors are keeping an eye on the community.

That means when you live in a townhome it’s much easier to leave your home without worry for something like a vacation, because you know you have others around you looking out for your property.