What is a Patio Home?

What Is A Patio Home on a Slab on Grade Also Know as a Single level Home?

Patio homes, also known as single level home, courtyard homes, carriage homes, cluster homes, or garden homes, represent a distinctive category of residential properties nestled within a serene courtyard or garden setting. Despite the name, not all patio homes feature a traditional patio; instead, they are characterized by their architectural style and their proximity to neighboring residences.

Patio Homes Offer High-End One-Level Living

No matter which stage you are at in life, looking at our patio home floor plans can give you options you may not have considered yet.

Patio homes are attractive to several groups of people:

1. Seniors or empty nesters who are “right-sizing”
2. Young professionals who don’t want to deal with lawn care or snow removal
3. People of any age who want one-level living

Patio homes offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability, making them an attractive option for various homeowners.

Slab on Grade or Single Level Homes For Sale

NEW Patio Homes For Sale

Table of Contents

• What Is A Patio Home on a Slab on Grade?
• Patio Homes Offer High-End One-Level Living
• Who Are Patio Homes Suitable For?
• Slab on Grade or Single Level Homes For Sale
• Shared Walls and Space
• A Brief History of Patio Homes
• A Sense of Community
• Patio Home Affordability
• Patio Home Security
• Patio Home Energy Efficiency
• Patio Home Simple Design
• Stylish Exteriors of Patio Homes
• Versatile Floor Plans
• What Is the Difference Between a Townhouse and a Patio Home?
• Benefits of a Slab Foundation
• FAQs
• Where to Search for Patio Homes for Sale

Shared Walls and Space

The defining feature of a patio home is the presence of at least one shared wall with another living space. This attachment may manifest as a gate, exterior landscaping, or fence, distinguishing it from conventional single-family homes.

This shared-wall concept is shared with condominiums and townhouses. However, patio homes are typically limited to one-and-a-half stories, with the half-story often reserved for an additional bedroom or loft rather than a full living space.

A Brief History

Patio homes first emerged in the 1970s and quickly gained popularity, particularly among first-time homebuyers. These homes are generally constructed on small lots, maximizing the use of available space. Unlike traditional single-family homes, they often lack side yards or backyards, blurring the boundaries between neighboring properties.

Patio homes are commonly found near golf courses, but they can also be located in various residential communities and neighborhoods. Their smaller square footage and manageable layouts have made them a preferred choice for retirees and empty-nesters seeking low-maintenance living.

A Sense of Community

Many people value their privacy when it comes to housing arrangements, but living alone in an isolated setting may mean missing out on the sense of community and shared experiences. Patio home communities provide an excellent middle ground, offering residents the opportunity to make friends and develop a sense of belonging.

The shared spaces in patio home communities encourage interactions and foster a more comfortable atmosphere for newcomers, making them ideal for first-time buyers seeking to establish themselves in a new environment.

Patio Home Affordability

One significant advantage of patio homes is their affordability. Property taxes are generally lower for patio homes compared to single-family homes. Additionally, amenities like shared pools and clubhouses contribute to the cost-effectiveness of living in a patio home. Residents typically pay less to access and maintain these amenities than they would for individual, standalone facilities.

Patio Home Security

Security is a paramount concern for homeowners. Some prefer the added security of gated communities or properties with 24-hour security services. In many patio home communities, essential security measures are included in the monthly maintenance fees, helping homeowners keep their expenses in check while ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment.

Patio Home Energy Efficiency

Patio homes are favored not only for their size but also for their energy efficiency. Their compact designs require less energy for heating and cooling, and they necessitate less space for yard maintenance. This makes patio homes, along with small lot houses and condos, more environmentally friendly options.

Patio Home Simple Design

One of the appealing aspects of patio homes is their straightforward, uncomplicated design. These properties are typically small and modest, but they often incorporate unique architectural styles and interior designs that set them apart from traditional houses. This blend of simplicity and uniqueness makes patio homes a choice for modern dwellings with a touch of individuality.

Stylish Exteriors

Patio home communities today offer a diverse array of designs and styles, allowing homeowners to choose options that reflect their personal tastes. Unlike condos, which often feature uniform designs, patio homes can be customized to suit your preferences. Some patio homes even offer the option to add private pools, screened patios, and other luxurious amenities, making them stand out in the neighborhood.

Versatile Floor Plans

Contemporary patio homes come with various open floor plan designs, allowing homeowners to customize their living space according to their unique needs and preferences. This flexibility is ideal for those looking to express themselves and create a home that truly reflects their personality.

What Is the Difference Between a Townhouse and a Patio Home?

As previously mentioned, patio homes share a similarity with condominiums in that they both share a wall with neighboring units. However, there are essential differences that set them apart. To better understand these distinctions, let’s first explore what a condo is and how it differs from a patio home.

A condominium or townhouse unit typically shares a property with other units for various reasons. In some cases, developers construct multiple units next to one another, each unit sharing a wall with its neighbors. Depending on the size of the condo, some units may be above, below, or beside others. Alternatively, developers may create an entire complex with shared facilities, such as a swimming pool, tennis court, and clubhouse, to which all property residents have access.

Condominiums are defined by their shared common areas or facilities. However, despite these shared features, patio homes and condominiums are not always similar.

A significant difference lies in the land rights associated with each property type. Condo owners typically own only the space within the walls of their units and do not have ownership of the exterior areas, including gardens, yards, or sidewalks.

In contrast, patio home owners have a more comprehensive ownership arrangement. They own not only the interior and exterior of their property but also the land on which the property is situated. This means that if you live in a patio home with a swimming pool and garden on your property, you have full ownership of these amenities.

Benefits of a Slab Foundation

When it comes to choosing the foundation for your home, a slab foundation offers several advantages:

Economical

Slab foundations are cost-effective in terms of both labor and materials. This affordability makes houses built on slab foundations more accessible to a wide range of homeowners. Additionally, these foundations require minimal maintenance.

Quick Construction

Constructing a slab foundation is a speedy process. It does not require excavation work, as builders use poured concrete that cures in a matter of days. This eliminates the need to halt construction while waiting for the foundation to set, preventing delays in the building process.

Reduced Mold and Pest Concerns

Slab-on-grade homes have fewer openings or spaces underneath the structure, reducing the likelihood of mold growth and pest infestations. This feature contributes to a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Easy Expansion

If you decide to expand your home in the future, a slab foundation provides a convenient and cost-effective option. Consult your contractor, and they will guide you through the process of extending your home.

Durability

Slab foundations have the potential to last for more than a century, provided they are constructed with high-quality materials and workmanship.

Aesthetic Options

You can enhance the appearance of your slab foundation by staining and texturing the materials for aesthetic purposes, adding a personalized touch to your home.

Patio Homes for Sale

FAQs

Do patio homes have basements?

No, they do not have a basement.

What is the meaning of a patio home?

A patio home is a residential structure consisting of multiple attached units. These homes are typically compact and offer limited amenities, often with a single-floor layout and an exterior area or patio that may lead to a lawn or garden.

What is another name for a patio home?

Patio homes are known by various names, including single level, carriage homes, cluster homes, garden homes, or Slab on Grade homes.

Why are they called patio homes or single level?

The name “patio homes” reflects their architectural design and layout, which often includes shared patios or courtyards. These homes are designed for community living and are characterized by their unique design.

Where can I search for patio homes for sale?

If you are searching for Patio Homes to buy or Slab on Grade Homes for Sale, you should search online. Many online property listing sites will assist you in your search for patio homes for sale. A good example of such a site is FargoHomeSearch.com.

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Purchasing a House on a Concrete Slab Foundation

55 + Communities for Sale in West Fargo ND | Modern Market Realtors®

Who Are Patio Homes Suitable For?

If you’re considering purchasing a patio home, it’s essential to understand why this type of property may be the right choice for certain individuals. Patio homes are ideal for those looking for an affordable, low-maintenance residence. Due to their size and shared amenities, patio homes are often more budget-friendly than other housing options.

These homes also appeal to individuals seeking compact, efficient living spaces. Patio homes offer flexibility in terms of customization and renovations, allowing homeowners to adapt their living spaces to suit their needs and preferences.

Moreover, patio homes promote a sense of community. When you buy a patio home, you become part of a community where you can connect with neighbors, share facilities, and enjoy the camaraderie of community living.

For those with a travel-centric lifestyle, patio homes are an excellent choice. Their low-maintenance nature means you can leave for business or family trips without worrying about your property’s upkeep. You can travel with peace of mind, knowing your home is being taken care of.

Written by Jim Christl and Shannon Barnum of Modern Market REALTORS® for potential homebuyers. We hope that collaborative effort shines through in providing clear and concise information, empowering readers to make informed decisions in West Fargo’s real estate market.