Topsail Island is an affordable and beautiful place to buy a home. There are many options from luxury oceanfront houses to modest condos close to beach access. Deciding on the right property may be challenging, especially if you're looking to purchase a vacation or rental property. 

Houses are great if you need space for your large family or extra guests. There is often more space for outdoor gear like boats, surfboards, and bikes. However, if you don't need the extra space you may prefer the simplicity of a condo. With little maintenance on your plate and access to the community's amenities, you'll have more time to relax and enjoy your vacation. If you're stuck wondering whether a condo or house is right for you, we'll review some of the pros and cons of a condo vs. a home. 

What Are Your Housing Options on Topsail Island?

There are three different towns on Topsail Island–North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. North Topsail Beach has newer builds and more condo options than Topsail Beach. So, if you're looking for condos, you may have to limit your search toward the north end of the island. However, there are houses for sale available in all three towns. The island has sandy beaches, fishing piers, and water access no matter which town you choose. 

Why Choose a Condo?

There are many reasons why people choose to purchase a condo vs. a home. For starters, there is a lot less responsibility in taking care of the property. For retirees and those who are just looking for a low-maintenance vacation home, this housing option might be the most ideal choice. 

Property Amenities

When you purchase a condo, you're also getting access to community features. Some of the cool features might include a pool, hot tub, boat docks, and outdoor grills. With this kind of access to amenities, you'll have a great time while on vacation to the island. Plus, having these types of features will be highly desirable if you decide to rent out your condo. Visitors would find these features convenient, and you may have the ability to set a high rental price.

Less Maintenance and Upkeep

There is a lot less worry, stress, and work involved when owning a condo vs. a home. Condos require much less maintenance and upkeep than houses. With condos, you'll have a certain amount of responsibility for the cleanliness and condition of the interior of your home. However, you won't have to worry about the exterior or grounds of the building. If you don't plan to stay on the island full-time, less maintenance might be the best choice for you. 

More Affordable

If you're working with a tight budget, affordability may be a deciding factor in your final decision. In general, condos are more affordable than houses. When purchasing a condo, you'll need a smaller down payment than you would with a house. The monthly mortgage payments will also likely be lower. 

Even though condos are more affordable to buy than houses, you can still earn a sizeable rental income during the peak summer months. Many smaller families and couples prefer the amenities and condo lifestyle to a house. If you own a condo with a view or quick beach access, you'll find it easy to rent it out to visitors on the island.

Why Choose a House?

While owning a condo does have its advantages, there are also a lot of reasons to buy a house instead. For instance, you may need more space than a condo will provide. Having a large family or the ability to entertain guests may be a deciding factor in choosing between a condo vs. a home. 

More Space and Privacy

If you purchase a house, you'll have more space and privacy than with a condo. If you have kids, multiple vehicles, or outdoor equipment and gear, you may need a lot of space. Having an attached garage or shed may be essential for your situation. 

Additionally, if you prefer to have more privacy, a house will be the better choice for you. With condos, you're typically right next to your neighbors, which offers limited privacy. But with houses, you'll have more privacy and space depending on the size of the lot. 

Larger Rental Income Possibility

Though condos also have rental income possibilities, bigger houses have more potential to pull in large sums of money. Condos are typically only one or two bedrooms, which limits the number of renters you can have in your home. However, houses generally have more bedrooms available. You'll be able to charge a higher price per stay if you offer sleeping for eight rather than two. 

Another way to step up your rental income is by making home improvements. Updating the decor, appliances, and other features of your home will make it more desirable to renters. Additionally, having convenient features like a garage and private beach access can also make your rental more attractive to guests.

More Location Options

There are more limited condo options on Topsail Island. If you're looking for a condo in a particular neighborhood or community, it's unlikely that you'll find exactly what you're looking for, as the southern end of the island has limited condo options available. Most of the available options are in North Topsail Beach. If you're looking for a house, you'll find a variety of options available in all three towns.

Choosing between a condo and a house can be challenging, as both options have pros and cons. If you want less maintenance and more amenities, a condo may be the right choice. However, if you want space, privacy, and more location options, you'll likely prefer the homes of Topsail Island more than the condos. We have condos and single-family homes available for sale. Get in touch with our team if you're ready to begin your home search.