🌿 What Is a Patio Home?
What Is a Patio Home (Slab-on-Grade / Single-Level)?
In our ND/MN markets, “patio home” usually means a single-level, slab-on-grade home designed for low maintenance and easy living. Builders and MLS systems may label them courtyard homes, carriage homes, garden homes, cluster homes, or simply single-level. Some patio homes are attached (share a wall), others are detached on small lots—so always check the listing’s ownership type and HOA docs. The common thread is one-level living with simplified exterior upkeep.
Patio Homes Offer High-End One-Level Living
No matter your life stage, single-level plans can unlock features you may not have considered:
- Zero-entry or minimal-step entries; wider halls/doors; main-floor laundry and owner’s suite
- In-floor radiant heat (common on slabs) and efficient layouts with fewer wasted steps
- HOA lawn & snow in many communities for true lock-and-leave convenience
Who Are Patio Homes Great For?
- Seniors/empty-nesters right-sizing for comfort and accessibility
- Busy professionals who don’t want lawn care or snow removal
- Anyone who prefers one-level living with a smaller footprint
Slab-on-Grade / Single-Level Homes for Sale
NEW Patio Homes for Sale
Browse the full list of Patio Homes for Sale »
Table of Contents
- What Is a Patio Home?
- Patio Homes Offer High-End One-Level Living
- Who Are Patio Homes Great For?
- Ownership, HOA & What’s Included
- Attached vs. Detached (and How They Differ from Townhomes/Condos)
- Construction & Foundation (ND/MN specifics)
- Affordability & Ongoing Costs
- Energy Efficiency & Comfort
- Community & Security
- Floor Plans & Options
- New Construction vs. Resale
- Townhouse vs. Patio Home
- Benefits of a Slab Foundation
- FAQs (10)
- Where to Search for Patio Homes
35 Patio Homes For Sale and Slab On Grade Homes
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The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity SM Program of the Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc. The information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Properties subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. ©2024 Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc All rights reserved.
https://fargohomesearch.com/patio-homes/
Ownership, HOA & What’s Included
Many patio homes are fee-simple (you own the home and lot) with an HOA that covers lawn, snow, sprinklers, and sometimes exterior maintenance. Others are legally structured as condos (you own the interior; the association owns common areas). Always review covenants, financials, reserves, rental/pet rules, and what’s included so costs and responsibilities are clear.
Attached vs. Detached (and How They Differ from Townhomes/Condos)
- Detached patio home: Looks like a small single-family on a compact lot (often HOA-maintained).
- Attached patio home: Shares a wall (sometimes called twin homes/duplex style) but typically single-level.
- Townhome: Usually multi-level; you own the unit (and often the lot footprint) with shared walls.
- Condo: You own interior space; exterior/common areas owned by the association.
Construction & Foundation (ND/MN specifics)
Slab-on-grade homes in our climate are commonly built with frost-protected perimeter insulation. Expect efficient envelopes, fewer stairs, and often radiant in-floor heat. Without a basement, plan for smart storage (attic trusses, closets, cabinetry) and verify utility locations (mechanicals, shutoffs).
Affordability & Ongoing Costs
Smaller footprints can mean lower utility costs and fewer maintenance items. We’ll help you weigh HOA dues, insurance needs, taxes, and likely resale to fit your budget and timeline.
Energy Efficiency & Comfort
Compact designs heat and cool quickly. Features like in-floor heat, high-performance windows, insulated slabs, and smart thermostats boost comfort and lower bills.
Community & Security
Many patio-home neighborhoods include friendly, low-traffic streets, walking paths, or optional gates/cameras. HOA rules can reduce clutter and help homes show consistently well.
Floor Plans & Options
Open kitchens, sunrooms, flex dens, zero-entry showers, and no-step garages are popular. Some plans add a small bonus loft for guests or hobbies while keeping everything you need on the main level.
New Construction vs. Resale
- New: Customize finishes, efficient systems, builder warranty—plan for build timelines and punch lists.
- Resale: Established neighborhoods, immediate move-in—budget for updates and inspections.
Townhouse vs. Patio Home
Townhouses are typically multi-story with stairs, whereas patio homes emphasize single-level living. Ownership and HOA inclusions vary; we’ll confirm what applies to each listing.
Benefits of a Slab Foundation
- Economical & fast: Less excavation; quicker build cycles
- Lower moisture/pest risk: No below-grade space
- Radiant-heat ready: Comfortable, even warmth
- Durable: Long service life when properly engineered
A Sense of Community
Shared maintenance and thoughtful design encourage neighbor interaction—great for newcomers, travelers, and anyone who values friendly, low-maintenance living.
Stylish Exteriors
Today’s patio homes span modern, craftsman, and traditional styles. Many allow options like covered patios, screened porches, and tasteful fencing—check HOA guidelines first.
Where to Search for Patio Homes for Sale
Start here: Patio Homes for Sale (Fargo–Moorhead, West Fargo, Horace & nearby).
Want new builds, zero-entry, or HOA lawn/snow only? Tell us what you need—we’ll set up a custom search and send alerts.
Patio Home FAQs
Do patio homes have basements?
Usually no—most are slab-on-grade. Storage is handled with smart cabinetry, attic trusses, or larger garages.
Are patio homes the same as townhomes or condos?
No. Patio homes focus on single-level living and can be attached or detached. Townhomes are often multi-level; condos are an ownership type where you own the interior and the association owns common areas.
What does the HOA typically cover?
Commonly lawn care, snow removal, irrigation, and sometimes exterior maintenance/insurance. Inclusions vary—read the covenants and budget documents.
Can I finance a patio home with VA/FHA?
Often yes. If it’s fee-simple, it generally follows standard single-family guidelines. If legally a condo, the project may need to meet condo rules. We’ll help you confirm.
Are patio homes good for aging in place?
Yes—look for zero-entry, wider doors/halls, curbless showers, and main-floor laundry/owner’s suite for long-term comfort.
How much are HOA fees?
They vary by community and services provided. We’ll share current dues, what they include, and historical increases before you make an offer.
Can I fence my yard or have pets?
Usually, but subject to HOA rules (fence styles, heights) and pet limits. We’ll check restrictions for your shortlist.
What about storage and parking?
Most offer a two-stall garage; some add depth for a shop or storage. Exterior sheds are often restricted—ask for the covenants.
How are slabs built for ND/MN winters?
Expect insulated, frost-protected perimeters, quality sub-base, and strategic mechanical placement. Inspections verify details per home.
Where do I start my search?
Right here. Or tell us your must-haves (zero-entry, lawn/snow, radiant heat), and we’ll build a custom list with alerts.
Written by Jim Christl and
Shannon Barnum of Modern Market REALTORS®.
Our goal is to make your patio-home search simple, local, and low-stress.
