There are many types of houses in the United States and it can be confusing for immigrants to understand the differences. This blog post will outline the most common types of housing in the U.S. Whether you are looking to buy or just to rent, it is important to know what is available out there. Keep reading for more information!
Different Community Settings
Before going into the different types and styles of houses and homes, we want to first introduce you to the different community settings that are typical in the U.S. Choosing the setting that suits you should always come before picking the house styles. Later, you will find that no matter where you live — the city, suburbs, small town, rural etc. — there will always be more than one style of houses for you to choose from.
The City
If you plan to live in the city in the U.S., you probably want to find an apartment instead of a house. There are many benefits of living in the City. For example, you’ll be close to public transportation, nightlife and other people – it can be a great way to meet new friends! However, if you have kids, you may want to reconsider as most apartments don’t have yard space for children to play.
The Suburbs
Houses in the suburbs are usually detached single-family homes on fairly small lots. They are close enough to the city that you can commute in for work, but at the same time far away enough that you can afford to have more space, not to mention the peace and quiet. If you have kids, the suburb is a great place to raise them as there will be other children in your neighborhood to play with and plenty of green space.
Small Towns
If you are looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, you might want to consider living in a small town. Small towns usually have a mix of both houses and apartments, but the houses tend to be larger than those in the city or suburbs. There will likely be less public transportation and nightlife, but the community feel is usually stronger.
Rural Areas or The Countryside
Houses in rural areas can be anything from a small farmhouse to a large estate. If you are looking for complete peace and quiet, this is the place for you. However, it is important to note that living in rural area can make you feel isolated. You may also find it difficult to get around if you don’t have a car.
1. Home Types: Apartments
Apartments, also known as “flats” in some other countries, are one of the most popular types of housing in America. They are usually found in larger cities and offer a variety of floor plans and price ranges . When you are looking for an apartment, it is important to know your budget, as well as what amenities you want and need, before beginning your search.
2. Home Types: Condominiums
A condominium, or “condo” for short, is similar to an apartment in that it is usually located in a larger city and offers a variety of floor plans and price ranges. The main difference between condos and apartments is that with a condo you own your unit outright (or have a mortgage) whereas with an apartment, you only rent the space from the building owner.
3. Home Types: Townhouses
Townhouses are similar to condos in that you own the unit outright, but they are usually found in smaller cities or suburbs. They are typically multi-level homes with the living space on the lower level and bedrooms on the upper levels. Townhouses often have common areas like playgrounds or pools that are shared by other residents in the community.
4. Home Types: Multi Family Home
A multi-family home is a house that contains more than one separate living unit, typically two to four, to accommodate more than one family living separately. These types of homes are usually found in larger cities and the suburbs. They will often have a shared wall but separate entrances and driveways.
5. Home Types: Single-Family Homes
Single-family homes are just that – single-family dwellings. These are the most common types of homes in America and can be found in cities, suburbs, and small towns across the country. They come in all shapes and sizes, from two-bedroom bungalows to six-bedroom mansions. These homes can be owned or rented. They are also available mostly on the edges of big cities and most commonly in suburbs, and small towns and rural areas.
Styles of Houses
To newcomers, it may seem like there are an unlimited number of house styles in America. It is important to note that even though many of these styles first became popular years ago, they are still being built throughout the country. Let’s go over some of the more common ones that you will read on realtor sites.
6. Colonial Style Homes
A colonial style home is inspired by homes built during America’s colonial era, which spans from the early 1600s to the early 1800s. These homes are characterized by their simple and symmetrical design, as well as their use of natural materials like wood and stone.
7. Victorian Style Houses
Victorian style houses are those that were built during the Victorian era, which lasted from the early 1800s to the early 1900s. These homes are usually quite large and grand, with elaborate details and a variety of colors and materials.
8. Craftsman Style Houses
Craftsman style homes were popularized in America during the early 1900s and are characterized by their use of natural materials, simple design, and exposed wood beams and trusses.
9. Mid-Century Modern Style House
Mid-century modern style homes were built during the mid-1900s and are characterized by their clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows.
10. Mediterranean Style Houses
Mediterranean style homes are inspired by the architecture of Mediterranean countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece. These homes are usually characterized by their stucco exterior, tile roof, and arched windows and doorways.
11. Ranch Style Homes
Ranch style homes are a type of single-family home that is typically one story and has a simple, open floor plan. These homes were popularized in America during the mid-1900s and are still very common today, especially in suburban areas.
12. Cape Code Style Homes
Cape Cod style homes are a type of single-family home that is typically two stories and has a symmetrical design. These homes were first built in the 1700s in New England and are characterized by their steep roofs and large chimneys.
13. Farmhouse Style Houses
Farmhouse style homes are a type of single-family home that is typically two stories and has a simple design. These homes were popularized in America during the early 1800s and are characterized by their use of natural materials, exposed wood beams, and large porches.
What is your budget?
Another important factor to consider when choosing where to live is your budget. City living is usually the most expensive, followed by the suburbs, small towns and rural areas. Keep in mind that the cost of living can vary greatly from one area to another, so it is important to do additional research.
Renting or Owning
Many of the types of houses above can be rented or owned. If you plan on renting first, make sure to read the landlord’s contract carefully before signing. This is especially true if you have pets as many places will not allow them or will ask for more security deposit.
Newly Arrived Immigrants' Challenges in Renting or Owning
If you are still in the process of setting up your family in the U.S. you will face different challenges differently than if you are already established as a Green Card Holder or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR), or immigrant that has obtained citizenship.
You may have a harder time renting or owning a home if you do not have credit established in the U.S., as most landlords will do credit checks on their prospective tenants before deciding to lease. Banks and financial institutions will also do extensive checks and also look at your work history in the U.S. before providing loans or mortgages.
As such, it is important that you establish credit in the U.S. as early as possible.
Hud & Section 8 Government Assistance
If you need help paying your rent, this is where HUD or Section 8 housing comes in. Under that legislation, the government will provide vouchers or places to stay for qualifying immigrants and citizens that meet certain income levels or needs-based qualifications. This article has more information on HUD and Section 8 and immigrants’ statuses.
Many Types of House in America to Choose From
So, there you have it! The most common types of housing in America. We hope this guide has been useful in helping you to understand the differences between different types and styles of homes in your new country!
