It sounds like you're concerned about resale so you don't want to purchase a property that just doesn't have high demand in Niceville. MLS shows the following stats for single family homes vs. townhomes that have sold in 2008, $150,000 - $200,000 and 1200 - 1800 SF.

Thirty-eight (38) single family houses sold vs. six (6) townhouses. None of these homes were sold 'As Is' so one has to assume the condition of all houses were at least 'good.' You might think the number of each type of dwelling had something to do with these numbers. At the present time (which should not be much different than during the rest of this year) there are 28 single family homes (4 being sold 'As Is') and 21 townhouses (1 being sold 'As Is') so the supply is not that much different between the two.

The average price per sq foot (SF) for the single family houses sold this year was $123/SF and $112/SF for townhouses. So there tends to be a small premium paid for a house, but the demand stats indicate that folks are willing to pay it for the privacy afforded by a single family home.

If I can send you local housing information, please don't hesitate to call! Good luck!

Diane

Single family homes are usually a better investment. Location, Age, Price and Condition are key factors in buying any investment property. I would also recommend obtaining an insurance quote on the older home first. If you would like me to send you a welcome quide, map and a fact book on the Niceville area, just email me. The fact book has great information on our local schools and attractions in our area.

As anywhere, location and price are key factors. My experience tells me that a single family home generally will hold value better that a condo or townhome. But PRICE and location of the initial investment will determine the future potential. Townhomes can fall under different forms of common area ownership; it may be condomium/townhome - where you do not own the land that lies beneath your townhouse or Fee-Simple HOA where you would own the land that lies below.

Either investment could be a winner, depending on the details. There is no magic bullet or easy answer!

It depends on the location in Niceville. A townhome is a more desirable location would be a better investment than a single family dwelling in a less desirable location in Niceville. There is always a need for rentals in Niceville. An older home in Bluewater Bay, for example, would probably hold value better than a newer townhome in some places in Niceville. Give me a call, and I would be happy to send you some examples!!