• At the highest level, homes are categorized by structure: single-family homes, multi-family homes, condominiums, etc. 
  • Homes are also often categorized by architectural style: colonial, modern, craftsman, farmhouse, and more. 
  • To choose the right home style for you, consider climate, privacy, and budget, as well as your personal preferences.

Are you looking to buy your dream home or a promising investment property? Understanding the different types of homes and architectural styles can help you make confident, informed decisions while navigating today’s dynamic real estate market.

Types of Homes: An Overview

Homes can be categorized in different ways:

  • By structure. Home types are defined by their physical build, layout, and function. Structure-based categorizations include single-family homes, multi-family homes, condos, and townhouses.
  • By architectural style. Homes are designed with distinctive aesthetic and functional features, reflecting historical influences, regional preferences, and design trends. Examples include ranch, Victorian, and Cape Cod.

Each structure and style of home has unique characteristics that influence functionality, appeal, value, and suitability for different needs.

Types of Homes by Structure

Single-Family Homes

A single-family home is a residential property designed to house only one family or household. Single-family homes are often detached, meaning they don’t share any walls with other dwellings. However, they can also be attached, meaning that one single-family home shares a wall with another single-family home next door.

Changing legislation also allows for more single-family homes with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).[1] This type of property has a main house plus a separate dwelling, such as a guest house, in-law suite, or casita. This arrangement often works well for multi-generational households or homeowners who want to earn rental income by leasing out the ADU. 

Multi-Family Homes

A multi-family home is a residential property owned by one entity but designed to house multiple households. Investors often purchase them as rental properties. Homebuyers may also purchase them to “house hack,” living in one unit while renting out the other(s). 

There are different types of multi-family homes, including:

  • Duplexes: Properties with two separate living units, typically stacked vertically or side by side under one roof.
  • Triplexes and quadplexes (fourplexes): Similar to a duplex but with three or four units in the same building.
  • Apartment buildings: Larger structures with more than four units owned by one entity who leases out the individual units. Despite being residential dwellings, these properties are technically categorized as commercial real estate. This difference is important because commercial real estate cannot be financed by the same mortgage loans as residential real estate.[2]

Townhouses (Townhomes)

A townhouse is a multi-story home that shares one or more walls with adjacent units. Each unit is owned independently and typically has a small, privately owned yard.

Townhomes are often part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), in which unit owners pay dues and agree to cooperate with their neighbors to maintain the community.

Condominiums (Condos)

A condo is an individually owned unit in a shared building or complex. Common areas are managed collectively by the HOA and often include amenities such as parking areas, a pool, or a community clubhouse. The more amenities provided, the higher HOA fees typically are.

Co-Ops (Cooperative Housing)

A co-op is a type of housing where residents don’t own their units outright. Instead, they purchase shares in a corporation that owns the entire property. In exchange for these shares, residents are granted the exclusive right to live in a specific unit through a lease or occupancy agreement.[3]

Prefabricated Homes

Some home types are built in factories (prefabricated) rather than directly on an owned lot. These include:

  • Mobile homes: Prefabricated homes that are built on movable chassis. 
  • Manufactured homes: Prefabricated homes constructed on chassis, which are fixed permanently to a foundation. Interestingly, the Department of Housing and Urban Development refers to mobile homes built after 1976 as manufactured homes as well, grouping both types together for regulatory purposes.[4]
  • Modular homes: Homes built in sections in a factory and assembled on-site.

In these cases, buyers can purchase the land on which to keep the home, or they can lease the land, as is common in mobile home parks and manufactured/modular home communities.  

Architectural Styles of Homes

Colonial

Colonial homes are characterized by their symmetrical design, steep gabled roofs, and central doorways flanked by evenly spaced windows. These homes often have brick or wood siding and may feature columns or shutters for added charm. Inspired by early American architecture, they present a timeless, classic look.

Modern

Modern houses focus on simplicity, clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. They often use materials like glass, steel, and concrete, with open floor plans and large windows that bring in natural light.

Tudor

Tudor homes feature steeply pitched roofs, half-timbered exteriors, and tall, narrow windows with diamond-shaped panes. Originating from medieval England, this style often includes brick or stone detailing, giving it a storybook-like, old-world charm.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod homes are cozy and simple, often with steep roofs, central chimneys, and dormer windows. Originating in New England, these homes offer a charming, rustic appearance with shingles or clapboard exteriors.

Ranch

Ranch homes are single-story houses known for their sprawling layouts and open floor plans. Popular in the mid-20th century, they typically feature large windows, sliding doors, and indoor-outdoor living with patios or decks.

Victorian

Victorian homes are ornate and dramatic, often featuring intricate woodwork, asymmetrical facades, and steep roofs. Popular during the late 19th century, these homes may include towers, turrets, and brightly painted exteriors with detailed trim.

Craftsman

Craftsman homes focus on natural materials, handcrafted details, low-pitched roofs, and overhanging eaves. They often include exposed wood beams, large front porches, and built-in features like cabinetry.

Mediterranean

Mediterranean homes are inspired by the architecture of Spain, Italy, and Greece. They often include stucco exteriors, red-tiled roofs, and arched windows or doorways. Outdoor elements like courtyards and balconies make these structures well-suited to warmer climates.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern homes, named for their popularity in the 1950s and 60s, are defined by their sleek, minimalist design. They typically have flat or gently sloping roofs, open floor plans, and large glass walls with an emphasis on geometric lines and functionality.

Farmhouse

Farmhouse homes are known for their rustic, cozy charm. They often feature large front porches, pitched roofs, and simple, functional designs. Modern interpretations include open layouts, exposed beams, and a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

A-Frame

A-frame homes are easily recognizable by their steeply angled roofline that extends to the ground, creating a triangular shape that rain and snow can slide easily off of. These rustic homes are often small, with a sleeping loft located above the main living area.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Home Type and Style

Before deciding on a type and style for your new home or investment property, consider the following:

  • Location and climate. Is the type of home you want easily accessible in your area? Is it well-suited to local weather conditions throughout the year?  
  • Privacy. Are you comfortable sharing common areas? Do shared walls offer enough soundproofing?
  • Budget and financing. Can you afford the style you want (including any HOA fees)? Will you be able to get a home loan for your chosen property type?
  • Layout and space requirements. Does the property type comfortably fit your household and suit your lifestyle?
  • Personal preferences. Are you happy with the look and feel of the space?

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right home type and architectural style is a personal decision that depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and practical needs. By understanding the unique characteristics of different structures and house styles, you can confidently find a home that aligns with your vision and enhances your living experience.

More on these topics: