Posted by Dawn Griffin
All About Fee Simple Townhomes
Fee simple townhomes are gaining traction in the U.S. housing market, offering a blend of affordability, autonomy, and urban convenience. This blog post delves into their rising popularity, benefits and drawbacks, buyer demographics, and regional trends.
What Is a Fee Simple Townhome?
A fee simple townhome grants the homeowner full ownership of both the dwelling and the land it occupies. This contrasts with condominium ownership, where individuals own their units but share ownership of common areas and land. Fee simple ownership provides greater control over property modifications and typically involves fewer restrictions.
The Rise in Popularity
Townhomes are experiencing a surge in demand across various demographics. In the second quarter of 2024, nationally townhouse construction accounted for nearly 15% of single-family home starts, marking a 17.2% year-over-year increase and reaching an all-time high since data collection began in the mid-1980s. Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Affordability: Townhomes often come with a lower price tag compared to detached single-family homes, making them attractive to first-time buyers and those on a budget.
- Efficient Land Use: Builders can construct more units on a given parcel of land, addressing the “missing middle” housing gap in urban areas.
- Urban Appeal: Townhomes are commonly situated in cities or rapidly growing suburbs, catering to buyers seeking proximity to work, amenities, and public transportation.
Pros:
- Full Ownership: Owners have complete control over their property, including the land, allowing for greater customization and autonomy.
- Lower HOA Fees: Fee simple townhomes typically have reduced or no homeowners association (HOA) fees compared to condominiums.
- Reduced Maintenance: While owners are responsible for their property’s upkeep, townhomes generally require less exterior maintenance than detached homes.
Cons:
- Shared Walls: Townhomes share walls with neighboring units, which can lead to noise issues and reduced privacy.
- Limited Outdoor Space: Yards are often smaller, and outdoor areas may be subject to community guidelines.
- Resale Considerations: In some markets, townhomes may appreciate at a slower rate than single-family homes.
Who’s Buying Fee Simple Townhomes?
The appeal of townhomes spans various age groups and household types:
- First-Time Buyers: With the median age of first-time buyers at 28 and a median household income of $97,000, townhomes offer an accessible entry point into homeownership.
- Young Professionals and Families: The affordability and urban locations of townhomes attract younger buyers seeking convenience and community amenities.
- Retirees: Older adults looking to downsize without sacrificing ownership benefits find townhomes appealing for their manageable size and reduced maintenance demands.
Popular St. Louis Neighborhoods for Townhomes
Lafayette Square
Lafayette Square offers a unique mix of meticulously restored historic townhomes and newer fee simple townhomes that blend seamlessly into the neighborhood’s Victorian-era charm. With its walkable streets, local restaurants, and proximity to Lafayette Park, it remains one of St. Louis’s most desirable areas for townhome living.
Historic Shaw
Located adjacent to the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park, Shaw mainly historic townhomes. In February 2025, the median sale price in Shaw was $305,000, up 19.6% compared to the previous year. Homes in Shaw sell after an average of 30 days on the market, reflecting a very competitive housing market. Townhomes provide an excellent way to get into this popular neighborhood.
Central West End
This area combines cultural attractions with modern amenities. It has a mix of historic and modern townhomes. The median listing price for homes here is $387,000, reflecting its desirability among professionals and families. Gaslight Townhomes is one of the newest townhome developments in the Central West End and offers 3-story 3 bed/2.5 home at $535,000.
Tower Grove South
A diverse and dynamic neighborhood, Tower Grove South features townhomes with a median listing price of $229,000, appealing to a broad range of buyers. In March of 2025, NextSTL reported that four townhomes were coming to the corner of Morganford and Arsenal. This prime location across from the park will surely interest area buyers.
Conclusion
Fee simple townhomes offer a compelling blend of affordability, ownership autonomy, and urban convenience. As housing preferences evolve, these properties present a viable option for a wide range of buyers seeking a balance between cost, control, and community living.