Townhouse vs Townhome: What's the Real Difference?

When you hear townhouse, a multi-level residential unit sharing walls with neighbors, typically owned outright with responsibility for exterior maintenance. Also known as terraced house, it's a common choice in dense urban areas across India and abroad. People often use the term townhome, a style of home that looks like a townhouse but is often part of a planned community with HOA rules and shared amenities. Also known as attached single-family home, it’s marketed as more modern and maintenance-free. The truth? In many places — including India — these words are used interchangeably. But if you’re comparing prices, understanding rules, or planning a long-term investment, the difference isn’t just semantics. It’s about who pays for the roof, who controls the landscaping, and whether you’re buying a standalone unit or a piece of a managed community.

Most townhouses are older, built in rows, and give you full ownership of the structure and land beneath it. You fix the siding, mow the front yard, and handle the roof. A townhome, especially in newer developments like those in Bangalore or Pune, usually comes with a homeowners association (HOA). That means you pay monthly fees for things like garbage collection, pool access, or exterior painting — but you also don’t have to lift a finger for those tasks. If you’re looking at listings and see both terms, check the fine print: Is there an HOA? Who owns the land? Are there restrictions on painting your door or installing a satellite dish? These details decide if you’re getting a traditional townhouse or a modern townhome in disguise.

Some developers in India use "townhome" to make a unit sound more upscale — even if it’s just a townhouse with a fresh coat of paint and a fancy brochure. Don’t be fooled by marketing. Look at the property title, the maintenance responsibilities, and the HOA documents. A townhouse might cost less upfront but could cost more over time. A townhome might have higher monthly fees but save you time and hassle. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how much control you want over your space. Below, you’ll find real examples and breakdowns from buyers who’ve been there — no fluff, just facts.