Property Types in State College, PA

One of the best things about buying or investing in real estate in State College, PA is the wide array of property types you can find here. Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo, a home for the family, or an excellent investment opportunity, you’re bound to find the right property to suit your needs.

When buying real estate in State College or anywhere else, keep in mind that the type of property may have an impact on your mortgage application. If you’re buying a second home or an investment property, for example, lenders will generally have more stringent requirements on credit scores and proof of funds.

Here’s a look at the various types of properties that you can find in State College.

1. Single-family homes Single-family homes dominate the housing market in the borough. They come in a wide range of prices and sizes to match different budgets and preferences. You’ll find everything, from a sprawling estate with a stately mansion and acres of land, to charming houses that are perfect for first-time homebuyers. The ages of single-family homes for sale in State College, PA also vary widely. Some are historic properties over 75 years old, boasting the distinct architecture and a classic charm. There are also quite a few new construction homes built in the last five years or so.
2. Townhomes Townhomes are a great option if you’re looking for more affordable housing. They typically feature two or more stories, with one unit sharing one or more walls with adjoining unit/s. Most townhomes are designed as row houses, but this is not always the case. Some may be built with a different orientation for each unit to allow for more privacy. Compared to a condo, townhomes generally give you more privacy and space. A unit generally comes with a small yard or roof deck that’s also part of the owner’s property.
3. Condos Condos are highly popular in State College, particularly as off-campus housing. As such, they make a great home or investment property that you can rent out to students or university employees. Similar to single-family homes, the condos in the town come in a wide range of sizes and prices. You’ll find million dollar luxury properties with three or more bedrooms, one-bedroom condos of around 700 to 750 square feet, and everything in between. Condos are typically multistory buildings with several units on one floor, but they can also be housed in a single-story building. Row houses may also be sold as condos, but what makes them different from townhomes is, with condos, you only own the space within the walls of your unit. Anything outside that is a common property shared by all owners in the building or complex.
4. Apartments “Apartment” is a general term that refers to a unit in a multi-family property. Condos and coops are types of apartments. However, many people refer to “apartments” as housing units that are solely for rent, while condos and coops are properties that may be purchased. In most cases, an apartment building only has one owner, while ownership of a condominium building is shared by the individual condo owners. Apartment buildings make great investments in State College. As a college town hosting a large university, renters here outnumber owners at a ratio of 4 to 1. With a limited number of on-campus housing, apartments are the most popular lodging options for students. Apartment buildings are considered commercial properties, so buying or selling one is more complex than buying or selling a single-family home or a single condo or townhouse.
5. Multifamily houses Multifamily homes are generally single-family properties that have been converted into two to four housing units. If the number of units is more than four, then it’s considered a commercial property. A multifamily property may be a rowhouse, or it may be a multistory property with a single entrance or a separate entrance for each unit. What makes a multifamily home different from a condo or townhome is that all units and the entire building are owned by a single person or company. The owner may live in one unit and rent out the others or may rent out all units. They may also choose to use other units as guest houses or as a home for friends or relatives.
6. Land Land is arguably the simplest way to invest in real estate. Unlike in homes and buildings, you generally don’t have to spend on its maintenance or management. Moreover, the value of land traditionally increases over time, giving you great potential for a profit when it comes time to sell. You may also consider renting out the land for temporary uses, such as for billboards or warehouses, so you can make passive income in addition to building your equity. You can find great opportunities for land investments in State College. Some are vacant lots in developed subdivisions or developments, on which you may build a home from the ground up when you’re ready. Others are raw undeveloped acreages with excellent potential for residential or commercial development.

Find the right State College, PA property with the Heritage Realty Group

Whether you’re looking for a condo, townhome or single-family home for rent or for sale, land, or any other property type, it will be our pleasure to help you achieve your real estate goals. Get in touch with us today at 814.231.0101, or drop us a note here.

Simple home maintenance tips to remember

A well-maintained house is a joy to live in. Not only does it provide the comfort and convenience you want, but it also gives the promise of great returns once you decide to put it up for sale. Besides, with the ongoing pandemic, there’s no better sanctuary where you’ll feel safe from the risk of COVID-19 and other pathogens than your clean and optimally functioning home. Making sure your house is in great condition doesn’t need to cost you big bucks. Listed in this article are some handy and cost-efficient tips to care for your abode so that it will remain a wonderful living space for many years to come.

How to choose the right type of property for your needs

The common perception when someone says, “I want to buy a house” is that they’re interested in the typical single-family home with a nice yard and fencing. However, there are many other property types that you can call home, from high-rise condos to townhomes. Each has its own benefits and caveats, which is why it is important for homebuyers to assess themselves and their lifestyle requirements before finally settling on the kind of property to call home. Do you know your choices when shopping for a new home? How do you know which among them is right for you? This article breaks down the different property types and provides tips to help you make a smart home-buying decision.

Condo vs. Townhouse: What’s the difference?

Townhome or condo? What’s really the difference, and how do you know which one’s right for you? Generally speaking, both choices provide more flexibility, less upkeep, and fewer obligations than single-family homes. Despite their obvious similarities, however, townhomes and condos are two distinct property types in the Pennsylvania housing market. To be more specifically, they refer to different kinds of ownership. If you’re in the market for either a townhome or a condo, here’s what you need to know about these property types. Knowing the pros and cons of each will help you determine which one will best suit your needs as a homeowner.

Are condos a good investment?

Condo living is the new black for many young upstarts wanting to break into the cosmopolitan lifestyle. It is also a great option for mature couples seeking a new, smaller, and maintenance-free refuge after the children have gone to seek their own paths. Newlyweds also entertain this residential option as their first foray into real estate as a couple. Even single people appreciate the sense of independence and ownership that condos provide. On the business side of it, condos can be turned into rentals for income generation – or you can enjoy living in it, keep it well-maintained, and sell it at a great profit. Here’s why the answer to this topic’s title is a resounding “yes!”

How to choose the best smart home security system for your home

Safety is a basic human need, and homeowners can take their safety into their own hands with a smart home security system. Advances in technology have made it easier than ever for homeowners to monitor their homes and control certain home features, from motion sensors to smoke alarms. Today’s homeowners also have access to a wide range of options, including sophisticated cameras, lighting fixtures, and more. No matter your needs or budget, you’re bound to find something that meets your preferences. Here’s what to look for in a smart home security system, and whether you should go for DIY or professional