First-Time Homebuyers: Single-Family or Townhome?

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but moving into your own home can be a difficult change that comes with a lot of responsibility. That’s why many first-time buyers are looking at townhomes to ease the transition. While a single-family home offers more control and privacy, a townhome can offer an affordable home and a streamlined lifestyle with HOA-managed maintenance. Let’s explore the pros of cons of single-family homes and townhomes.

McBride Homes builds both single-family homes and townhomes across 60+ new construction communities in the St. Louis area. As Missouri's largest homebuilder with 80 years of experience, McBride Homes gives you the proven expertise and local knowledge to navigate this decision with confidence.

This guide breaks down key differences to help you determine which home type fits your lifestyle, budget, and goals. 

Quick guide: 5 key differences between St. Louis single-family homes and townhomes

1. Privacy & Shared Walls

Single-family homes typically stand on their own, meaning you won't share walls with neighboring homeowners. Townhomes are attached to one or more neighboring homes, which can create a more connected community feel but may mean less privacy.

2. Yard & Outdoor Space

Single-family homes generally offer more private outdoor space, making them a great option for homeowners who want a larger yard, room for pets, or space for outdoor entertaining. Townhomes often have smaller yards or patios.

3. Maintenance Responsibilities

With a single-family home, the homeowner is typically responsible for maintaining the home's exterior, yard, and landscaping. Many townhome communities have an HOA that handles some exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common areas, which can mean less work for the homeowner.

4. Space & Floor Plans

Single-family homes often provide more living space, larger homesites, garages, and greater flexibility for expanding or customizing the property. Townhomes can offer efficient, thoughtfully designed floor plans that maximize space while often providing the features buyers want at a more accessible price point.

5. Cost & Value

Townhomes are often a more affordable path to homeownership, particularly for buyers who want a newer home in a desirable location without the cost of a larger lot. Single-family homes may come with a higher purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs, but they can offer more land, privacy, and potential for long-term appreciation.

Why Buy New?

While there are many factors to consider when deciding between a townhome or a single-family home, no matter the home type, new construction can offer several advantages–especially for first-time buyers. A newly built house can make homeownership less stressful because everything is brand new–from the roof and HVAC system to the appliances and plumbing–which reduces the likelihood of costly repairs or unexpected maintenance during the first several years of ownership. Modern building materials, insulation, and HVAC systems can also help lower monthly utility bills compared to many older homes. Plus, new construction homes are built to current building codes and McBride Homes come with a 10-year Builder’s Warranty, providing added peace of mind and protecting your investment as you settle into your fist home.

Whether you build from scratch and design your home in McBride’s award-winning Design Studio or you fall in love with a professionally designed Quick Move home, all finishes will be modern and free of any wear-and-tear. Meaning you can skip the costly renovations and enjoy your move-in ready home immediately.

Find Your First Home with McBride Homes

Whether you’re dreaming of a spacious single-family home or the convenience of a low-maintenance townhome, McBride Homes offers new construction options throughout the St. Louis area to fit every lifestyle and budget. With award-winning home designs, personalized selections through the Design Studio, 200+ Quick Move homes available, and a 10-year Builder’s Warranty, you can feel confident taking the next step toward home ownership.

Explore McBride Homes’ Townhome Communities in the St. Louis Area

Fairmount Grove in St. Peters, featuring the 3-bedroom Burlington floor plan from the $290s.

Dogwood Grove in Lake St. Louis from $290s. This community offers generous green space with lakes and a dog park area.

Rosewood Grove coming soon to Lake St Louis from the $310s with an excellent location just steps from shopping, dining, and entertainment and a community playground for families.

Harvest Townhomes in O’Fallon featuring the 2-3 bedroom Georgetown floor plan from the $240s. Take advantage of the amenity-rich lifestyle at Harvest with pickleball and bocce courts, playgrounds, a nature-inspired splash zone, a community garden and orchard, and an impressive 13-acre town square designed for community gatherings, food trucks, and a future farmer’s market.

FAQs about Single-Family Homes and Townhomes for First-Time Buyers in St. Louis

Q: What is the main difference between a single-family home and a townhome?

A: A single-family home sits on its own lot with no shared walls, giving you full control over the exterior and yard. A townhome shares one or two walls with neighboring units and includes HOA-managed exterior maintenance. McBride Homes offers both types across the St. Louis metro area.

Q: Do first-time buyers in St. Louis qualify for new construction homes?

A: Yes. McBride Homes works with first-time buyers regularly and offers access to HomeKey Mortgage, a preferred lender with competitive rates. You can also explore USDA-approved communities if your chosen location qualifies for rural development financing.

Q: How much maintenance does a McBride Homes townhome require?

A: Very little exterior work. At McBride Homes townhome communities, the HOA handles lawn care, landscaping, snow removal, and some exterior maintenance. Your responsibility is mostly limited to interior upkeep and personal outdoor spaces like patios.

Q: Can I personalize a townhome the same way as a single-family home?

A: Interior personalization is available for both home types through the McBride Homes Design Studio. You can select cabinets, countertops, flooring, paint colors, and lighting fixtures. Single-family homes also offer exterior elevation choices and additional structural options.

Q: How long does it take to build a new home with McBride Homes?

A: Timelines vary by home type, floorplan, and community. Townhomes often follow a faster construction schedule due to their attached design. McBride Homes also maintains quick move-in inventory across multiple communities for buyers who need to close sooner.

For more information about McBride Homes communities, call (314) 888-HOME or visit www.mcbridehomes.com

With 80 years of experience, McBride Homes is Missouri’s largest and most trusted homebuilder. Known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and unparalleled customer satisfaction, McBride Homes has helped thousands of families realize their dream of homeownership. The company offers a wide range of homes and communities to suit every lifestyle, backed by a tradition of excellence and a focus on customer care.