| Considering a house vs condo vs townhome? Buying a home in Orange County means deciding between several property types, each with their own trade-offs in terms of price, lifestyle, and long-term value. As top Orange County real estate agents, the Brad Feldman Group works with buyers across all property types in communities like Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Dana Point, Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, and beyond. Here's what you should know before you start your search. |
On paper, the biggest difference between property types in Orange County comes down to price. As of January 2026, here's where the market stands (via CRMLS/Infosparks):
These are 3-month averages, so they reflect real recent activity in the OC market. Single-family homes carry a significant premium, while condos offer the most accessible entry point. Townhomes land in the middle.
Listing inventory matters too. Orange County's supply of homes for sale remains tight across the board, which means competition for buyers regardless of property type:
For context, a balanced market is typically around 5 to 6 months of supply. We're well below that for every category (and have been for many years). If you're buying a house, expect the most competitive bidding environment. Condos offer slightly more breathing room, though "more" is relative in a market this tight.
To explore a house vs condo in terms of what's currently available, check out the Brad Feldman Group's real estate listings and portfolio for active properties and recent sales across Orange County.
Beyond the numbers, the right property type really depends on how you want to live.
Single-family homes give you the most space, privacy, and freedom. You have your own yard, you make your own decisions about the property, and you're not sharing walls with neighbors. For families, hobbyists, or anyone who values having room to spread out, a house in Orange County is hard to beat.
Condos offer ease and convenience. Professional management handles exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common areas, so you spend less time on upkeep. Many condo communities also come with amenities like pools, gyms, and clubhouses. And not all condos are the same. You'll find everything from apartment-style units to mostly (or even fully) detached options that feel like a single-family home but with the perks of shared amenities and an HOA handling the heavy lifting.
Townhomes often strike a balance between the two. You typically get more square footage and a private entrance compared to a condo, along with community amenities and management. Townhome developments are also frequently located near shopping, restaurants, parks, and easy freeway or transit access.
It's worth keeping an open mind during your search. Orange County has a huge variety of properties and neighborhoods, from large estates to tight-knit HOA communities to active retirement neighborhoods. The best home for you might not be the property type you originally expected.
For more information about communities throughout South Orange County and the surrounding areas, browse our neighborhood guides.
Whether you’re looking at a house vs condo, owning a home is still a big part of the American dream, and for good reason. For most first-time buyers, getting a foot in the door is the hardest part. Once you can save up a down payment and own a property, you stop paying rent and start building equity over time.
As home prices have risen and affordability has become more challenging, Americans are staying in their homes longer before selling. According to ATTOM Data, the average homeownership tenure nationwide is now 8.55 years, and in California it's 11.24 years, the third-highest of all 50 states. Given the costs associated with buying and selling real estate (closing costs, commissions, moving expenses), it's generally a decision you want to make with the long term in mind.
The good part about that long-term mindset is that real estate has historically been one of the most reliable ways to build wealth. Over time, you can leverage your equity to move into a larger home, relocate to a different area, or eventually downsize. Many retirees and empty nesters in Orange County do exactly that, cashing out the equity they've built over decades and transitioning to a property that fits their current lifestyle.
READ MORE: Downsizing Your Laguna Hills Home for a Better Lifestyle
No matter where you are on that journey, our team at the Brad Feldman Group has helped hundreds of Orange County homeowners at every stage. From first-time buyers finding their entry point to longtime homeowners looking to understand what their home is worth today, our team provides personal guidance tailored to your unique situation and goals.
Houses, condos, and townhomes in Orange County each have something to offer homebuyers. The right choice depends on your budget, your lifestyle, and your long-term plans.
Whatever direction makes sense for you, working with experienced Orange County Realtors who know these communities inside and out makes the process smoother and more rewarding.
If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County, reach out to the Brad Feldman Group today. We'd love to help you take the next step.
