Usually, buying a home is a very pricey and time-consuming endeavor. Due to different housing types, price differences, and property features, you have to do some extensive research before making a final decision. 

Among your many options, you may have come across condominiums and pocket neighborhoods. If you’re feeling undecided between the two, then you’re in the right place! 

In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about condos and pocket neighborhoods, along with each option’s unique advantages and disadvantages. 

Condominium 101: What Is It? (+ Pros and Cons)

• What is a Condominium?

Commonly known as a condo, a condominium is a building structure divided into several units that are owned separately. Moreover, condo owners jointly own shared common areas, such as garages, pools, and outside hallways, to name a few. 

• Living in Condominium Units: The Pros and Cons 

Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of living in a condo. 

• Pros

‘Why buy a condo?’ 

For most buyers, the biggest advantage of living in a condo is the simplicity and convenience that it brings. 

With most condo units, you only have to worry about the interior and decorating your space – everything else will be handled by a professional management company. There’s no driveway to clean, lawn to cut, or garden to maintain. 

Another big advantage of living in a condo is access to several types of amenities that no longer require you to travel long distances to visit or sign up for memberships. Today, most condos are fully equipped with gyms, swimming pools, basketball courts, and more. 

• Cons

With its advantages, living in a condo sounds so tempting, right? But, you have to know that living in a condo has its disadvantages, too. 

For one, you don’t own the land and most condo buildings have a max life of 50 years before being condemned. Also, while some condo communities have security staff, their dense population still makes them prone to safety and security hazards. Another disadvantage? The lack of privacy. Remember, you share common areas like the hallways, lobby, outdoor patios, and other amenities. If you value your privacy, a condo might not be for you. 

Pocket Neighborhood 101: What Is It? (+ Pros and Cons)

• What is a Pocket Neighborhood?

Essentially, pocket neighborhoods are groups of neighboring apartments or houses gathered around a shared, open space – be it a pedestrian street, garden courtyard, or combined backyards. However, while the houses are generally close together, they are designed to ensure privacy with the use of individual gates or gardens. Pocket neighborhoods can be found in rural, suburban, or urban areas.

• Living in a Pocket Neighborhood: The Pros and Cons

Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of living in a pocket neighborhood. 

• Pros

Pocket neighborhoods appeal to people who want to live in a close, tight-knit neighborhood. Also, pocket neighborhoods are a great alternative to other types of housing like condos. Rather than condos or apartments, they offer the privacy of a single-family home with the amenities of a condo or apartment development.

• Cons

Living in a pocket neighborhood isn’t suitable for everyone. If you crave privacy and don’t like living close to others, this isn’t the place for you. Also, homes tend to be smaller. Moreover, most pocket neighborhoods are composed of communities of all ages. So if you want to live with a same-aged crowd, you might not be happy there.

The Bottom Line

Both condos and pocket neighborhoods come with their own pros and cons. Make sure to carefully weigh your options to find the best living environment that suits your lifestyle and needs. 

Good luck!