I am also a single mother and bought a townhouse. I looked at condos but found the added condo fees to be too much for my budget. My HOA fee is not bad and has not risen much. I think if you find the right area/right schools you should buy. Its a good idea to have some roots for your child and at least you know your mortgage payment will not go up like rent will. Plus you can decorate and do as you like. Best wishes!!

OP- Currently have a TH on sale in FFX Great family neighborhood!!

I live in a TH as a single mom. It is financially more stable than renting as you receive a tax write off. DC is happy and thriving. Good luck with your decision.

Lots on sale in Fairfax for TH now.

See if you can find a 3-bedroom - they are generally better for resale to families. (there is a market for 2 bedrooms to some investors and single people, but 3 bedrooms are generally a little more desirable.) If one bedroom (and a bath) is in the basement, that can work well for rental purposes if you need extra income.

I think a townhouse is a great idea for a single mom. I lived in my townhouse for 10 years as a single child-free person and the last 2.5 years as a single mom. It was great. We had enough space, a little outdoor space that didn't take long to maintain, and we had tot lots and nice neighbors. If you did meet someone, you could rent it out, but you should assume for these purposes that you won't, or you might rent forever.

What's your email? I have a listing.

Anonymous wrote:Another single mom here, I bought my TH through VHDA with 3.5%, mortgage is slightly higher than rent but it's worth it. I think W Springfield is a good location for you.

Thank you PP!!

Another single mom here, I bought my TH through VHDA with 3.5%, mortgage is slightly higher than rent but it's worth it. I think W Springfield is a good location for you.

Anonymous wrote:Could you afford a house like this?
http://www.redfin.com/VA/Springfield/5512-Inverchapel-Rd-22151/home/9742634

This is decent neighborhood close to beltway.

A SFH is much nicer for kids.

I'd prefer a townhouse because I won't have to care for 0.3 acres by myself, but still get outdoor space. Thanks for posting, though, I may also look this route.

Could you afford a house like this?
http://www.redfin.com/VA/Springfield/5512-Inverchapel-Rd-22151/home/9742634

This is decent neighborhood close to beltway.

A SFH is much nicer for kids.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:curious--why a 3 bedroom if you have one child and are single and can't afford the downpayment?

less risky to buy a 2 bedroom for less money, no?

2bedroom townhouse is harder to sell and just slightly less $ than a 3bedroom. if it's a townhouse, i would prefer 3-4bedroom.

I have been looking at 2 bedrooms which are actually very rare. Also agreed not much less expensive than 3 bedrooms. Plus if I ever get remarried and have another child or a step child another room is a must or if I want to have guests stay over or as another PP posted, if I need income could rent out the 3rd room.

Thank you everyone for your thoughts!

I would do it... especially if you are looking to set down roots and live somewhere long term. Look at W. Springfield, which has lower HOA fees than Burke. If you can afford it, it's a sound decision.