Patio Homes - Are They For You

If you are among the 73,000 Baby Boomers, you may be considering downsizing your home or moving closer to your children.  One of the home options you have is a Patio Home.  

What Is A Patio Home

The definition of a patio home can vary greatly, but generally, a patio home is a smaller, single-family home with a small yard and lot.  (oh dear that could be most new construction nowadays).  It's a "cluster" of homes in a community. with the same architecture/style.  Some have a clubhouse, gym, walking paths, social events, but not all.

Loveland Patio Communities

Today Loveland CO has 11 patio homes for sale ranging from $307k - $556k.  Most of them have a Home Owners Association that takes care of lawn maintenance, snow removal, common areas such as parks, trees, and beautification of those areas.  Some cover exterior maintenance. 

Why Would I Want To Buy A Patio Home

• You don't enjoy yard work
• You don't want to shovel snow in the winter
• You want to travel - usually, the neighbors watch out for one another
• Easy to clean because they are smaller in size
• Since you are so close to the neighbors, generally you get to know them
• Most aren't high-end homes so they are cost-effective
• Some take care of exterior maintenance of the home
• Some are age restrictive 

Why Would You Avoid a Patio Home

• You prefer to have a little space from your neighbors
• You don't like the way the exterior yards are maintained
• You don't like the rules of the HOA
• You would rather hire someone to take care of a problem right away instead of wait for the HOA to approve cutting down a tree for instance.  
• You might not care for the restrictions ie exterior paint restriction, landscape restrictions, remodel restrictions
• If you are not a conforming person, this might not be a suitable fit

Generally, patio homes are a great way to downsize.