Twin Homes, Townhomes, Condos and One-Level Homes in Fargo-Moorhead

Short answer: a twin home is two homes sharing one wall, each on its own lot. A townhome is one of several attached units, usually with the land under it. A condo is ownership of your unit's interior plus a shared interest in the building. All three often come with association dues that cover snow removal and lawn care, which is a big reason they're popular in Fargo-Moorhead.

I'm Joseph Haj, a REALTOR® serving Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead and Horace. Here's how to tell these property types apart and what to check before you buy one.

Twin homesx

Twin homes are everywhere in Fargo-Moorhead, especially in newer parts of south Fargo, West Fargo and Horace. Each side is its own home on its own lot, sharing one wall with the neighbor. Many are one-level or have a finished lower level, and many belong to an association that handles snow and lawn care.

• Good for: first-time buyers, downsizers and anyone tired of shoveling.
• Check: the association rules and dues, who maintains the shared wall and roof, and the special assessments on the lot.

Townhomes

Townhomes are attached homes in a row of three or more units. You typically own your unit and the land under it, and the association owns and maintains the common areas.

• Good for: buyers who want more space than a condo with less upkeep than a house.
• Check: what the dues cover, the reserve fund, rental rules and parking.

Condos

You own the interior of your unit and share ownership of the building and grounds. The association insures and maintains the structure. In Fargo, condos range from lofts near Broadway in downtown Fargo to buildings in south Fargo and West Fargo.

• Good for: buyers who want to lock the door and go, and people who want a walkable downtown lifestyle.
• Check: the association's budget and reserves, pending special assessments, pet and rental rules, and whether the building is approved for FHA or VA loans if you're using one.

One-level and patio homes

"One-level" and "patio home" usually mean a home with the main living areas, bedrooms and laundry on one floor, often with few or no steps to get in. Many twin homes are built this way. They're popular with downsizers and anyone planning to stay put for the long term. Tell me you want main-floor living and I'll filter for it, because listing descriptions aren't always consistent.

Questions to ask about any association

1. What are the monthly dues, and what do they cover?
2. How much is in the reserve fund, and are any special assessments planned?
3. Who handles snow removal, and how soon after a storm?
4. Are there rules on rentals, pets, fences, sheds or exterior changes?
5. What does the association's insurance cover, and what do you need to insure yourself?

Don't forget city special assessments, which are separate from association dues. Read property taxes and specials in Fargo-Moorhead.

Frequently asked questions

What is a twin home in Fargo?

A twin home is two homes that share one wall, each sitting on its own lot and owned separately. Many twin homes in Fargo, West Fargo and Horace belong to an association that handles lawn care and snow removal for a monthly fee.

What's the difference between a townhome and a condo?

With a townhome you usually own the unit and the land under it, and an association handles shared areas. With a condo you own the interior of your unit and share ownership of the building and grounds with the other owners, and the association insures and maintains the exterior.

What do association dues cover in Fargo-Moorhead?

It depends on the association. Dues commonly cover snow removal, lawn care, exterior maintenance, shared insurance and a reserve fund for future repairs. Ask for the budget, reserve balance, rules and any planned special assessments before you buy.

Where can I find one-level homes for sale in Fargo?

One-level homes, including ranch homes, patio homes and many twin homes, are spread across Fargo, West Fargo, Horace and Moorhead. Twin homes in newer south Fargo and West Fargo developments are a common choice for buyers who want everything on one floor.

Talk with a local agent

Looking for a twin home, townhome, condo or one-level home? Tell me what you need and I'll set up a search for Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead and Horace. Call or text Joseph Haj at 218-688-0802, or search homes for sale.