Priced Out of the Market? A Condo or Townhome Could Be Your Way In

Today’s home prices have a lot of buyers, especially first-time buyers, wondering if there’s even anything out there that’s in their budget. But owning a home may be more within reach than you think. Sometimes, it just means considering a different type of home.

Condos and townhomes can be a great way to buy without stretching every last dollar. And right now, two things make them worth a serious look.

There Are More Condos and Townhomes To Choose From

Maybe you feel like there’s just nothing out there for you, and you’ve exhausted all your options. But have you considered condos or townhomes? A lot of buyers start by looking for a single-family, detached home without even realizing what that search omits from their pool of choices.

According to HousingWire Data, nationally there were 233,030 condos and townhomes for sale this June. That’s more than any June in at least the past decade, and more than double the number available back in 2022 (see graph below):

That means there are more options out there in this segment of the market, and that’s especially good news for first-time buyers. These types of homes can be a great way to break into the market for less.

Just remember, that’s the national number. What’s available will depend on where you’re looking. But generally speaking, more options means less competition, more time to decide, and more room to negotiate.

What’s Happening with Ann Arbor Condos

Good news if you’re shopping for a condo in Ann Arbor: the market is opening up in your favor. Through the end of July, new listings climbed to 594 in 2026 from 563 last year, giving you more choices to explore. At the same time, pending sales eased to 343 (down from 389) and closed sales dipped to 345 (from 359), while homes now sit for 49 days on average versus just 29 a year ago. With median prices sliding slightly to $335,000 from $340,000, this shift toward more supply and a calmer pace means you have room to compare options, negotiate with confidence, and lean on expert guidance to find the right fit.

They Also Tend To Cost Less Than Single-Family Homes

Price is the other big draw. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median condo price was $380,000 in June. In contrast, the median single-family home price was $446,400 (see graph below):

That’s a difference of more than $66,000.

A big reason why? Condos are usually smaller than single-family homes. And smaller homes can come with smaller price tags.

And if you don’t need all that extra space, that lower entry price could be exactly what gets you through the door.

What’s Happening with Condos vs. Homes in Ann Arbor

Here’s where the numbers get exciting for anyone eyeing an entry into the Ann Arbor market: through July 2026, the median home sold for $586,500 while the median condo came in at $335,000, a gap of over $250,000. That difference carries into averages too, with homes at $678,466 versus $448,299 for condos. Even a year ago, Ann Arbor condos began experiencing more price reductions. For you, this means a condo can be a smart, more accessible way to plant roots in a neighborhood you love, without stretching your budget to single-family territory. With expert Realtor guidance and clear market insights on your side, you can turn that price advantage into a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle right where you want to be.

Condo or Townhome? How They’re Different.

For buyers who feel priced out of the market, a condo or townhome could be a way in. But there are some things to know. Before you start checking out homes, it’s good to understand how these two compare to each other, and to a single-family home.

• With a single-family detached home, you own the house and the land it sits on, and you don’t share any walls with neighbors. That means the most space and privacy. But it also usually comes with a higher tag, and all the maintenance is on you.
• With a townhome, typically you own the building you live in and the lot it sits on. They’re usually multi-level, so you get more space, and you share two walls at most. You’ll also have more say over how your home looks and how repairs get done, but more of that upkeep falls on you.
• With a condo, you own just the inside of your unit and may have access to community features like a pool or gym. The building and shared space belong to everyone who lives there, which means you have less maintenance responsibilities. But you’ll also likely have more neighbors around you, less control over building decisions, and higher HOA fees since the HOA handles the exterior and common areas.

Bottom Line

Ready to make your move in Ann Arbor? A condo or townhome could be your path to owning a home without blowing your budget. The Bouma Group, Realtors knows this market inside and out, from the walkable downtown condos to the tucked-away neighborhoods you’ll love calling home. Our team pairs deep local expertise with personalized guidance, listening to your budget, your must-have features, and the lifestyle you’re after, then matching you with properties that truly fit. Whether you’re drawn to low-maintenance condo living or a place with a little more room to grow, we’ll walk you through financing options, honest market insights, and every step in between so you feel confident from first tour to closing day.

Let’s find the right spot for you together, reach out today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. Let’s turn your Ann Arbor plans into keys in your hand.

Holiday Home Selling: Making the Most of the Winter Magic!

Holiday Home Selling in Ann Arbor

Key Facts:

• Unique Winter Market: Fewer listings mean more attention for your condo or home.
• Digital Marketing Focus: Virtual tours and online listings attract busy holiday buyers.
• Holiday Home Selling Tactics: Flexibility and festive marketing make your condo stand out.

Selling your Ann Arbor condo or home during the winter holidays? It’s an exciting time! There’s so much to explore in this festive season. Let’s dive into the wonderful opportunities this time of year offers, from tapping into market trends to rocking your digital showcase!

The Winter Market: A Land of Opportunity

Think the winter holidays are a quiet time for real estate? Think again! It’s a period brimming with possibilities. With fewer properties on the market, yours gets to be the star of the show, drawing in those eager buyers. Highlight those cozy winter features – like your snug fireplace or efficient heating – and watch buyers fall in love.

Digital Marketing: Your Holiday Hero

In this digital era, a stellar online presence can really set your home apart. Imagine potential buyers scrolling through their feeds, only to be captivated by the virtual tour of your beautifully presented condominium or home. It’s a fantastic way to connect with buyers who are juggling holiday plans or traveling. And hey, who doesn’t love house hunting from their couch?

Showings with a Sprinkle of Flexibility

Holiday schedules can be hectic, right? Offering flexible showing times can make all the difference. Whether it’s a virtual showing or a private tour at a convenient time, it’s all about making it easy for buyers to see and fall in love with your listing.

Negotiating with Holiday Cheer

The holiday spirit can often bring a quicker pace to negotiations. Buyers are excited to settle into their new place for the new year, and who can blame them? Be ready for some spirited discussions, but remember, patience can lead to that perfect offer.

Holiday-Themed Marketing: Fun and Festive!

Let’s get creative with our marketing! It’s the perfect time to showcase how wonderful your condo or home is for hosting holiday events or how it’s the ideal retreat after a day in the cold. It’s about capturing the essence of the season while showing off your home’s features like ample storage for holiday decorations or a cozy indoor space for entertaining.

Wrapping It Up

The winter holiday season is a prime opportunity to present your property in a special light! With the right approach to market dynamics, a dash of digital marketing magic, and a sprinkle of holiday spirit, you’re set for a successful sale. Remember, this time of year can bring a unique sense of excitement to buyers, making it a wonderful time to showcase your home. Ready to learn about your tailored marketing plan to get your condo sold? Contact us today at info@condohotline.com or give us a call at 734-761-3060 today!