A single-family home is a standalone residential property designed to house one household. It does not share walls, utilities, or entrances with other units, and typically includes its own yard or lot.
For landlords, single-family homes are one of the most common and stable rental property types, offering lower turnover, easier maintenance, and long-term tenants. It's also the second-most popular dwelling for renters behind apartment units; 31 percent of renters in America live in single-family homes, according to US News.
This guide explains what qualifies as a single-family home, the difference between detached and attached homes, and why many real estate investors prefer them. If you’re considering renting out a single-family property, you’ll also learn what type of insurance coverage you need to protect your investment.
What is considered a single-family home?
A single-family home is a detached, standalone residential structure designed and built to house one household. Unlike multi-family properties such as duplexes or apartment buildings, a single-family home occupies its own individual lot, features a private entrance, and doesn't share walls, structural elements, or utilities with other dwelling units.
In the rental housing market, single-family homes have become increasingly popular among both tenants and landlords. Tenants appreciate the privacy, yard space, and residential neighborhood feel that single-family homes provide. For landlords, these properties offer straightforward management without the complexities of shared spaces, multiple units, or HOA restrictions that often come with condos or townhomes.
Single-family homes typically offer more autonomy for both parties; tenants can enjoy outdoor space for pets or recreation, while landlords benefit from clearly defined property boundaries and responsibilities. This property type often appeals to families seeking stability, pet owners needing yard access, and renters who want a more traditional homeownership experience without the financial commitment of buying.
Key characteristics of a single-family home:
- One residential unit (not a duplex or apartment)
- Private entrance and exit
- Owned land underneath the structure
- Separate utilities (electric, water, gas)
- Typically detached from neighboring structures
- Individual lot with defined property boundaries
- No shared common areas or amenities with adjacent properties
These homes are usually zoned for single-family residential use, meaning local ordinances designate them for occupation by one household—not multiple tenants or units operating under the same roof. Zoning regulations protect the character of residential neighborhoods and ensure properties are used as intended. Some municipalities have strict definitions that prevent single-family homes from being converted into multi-unit rentals or boarding houses.
Types of single-family homes: Attached vs. detached
While most people envision a single-family detached home—a freestanding house with a yard and no shared walls—there are other variations worth noting that still qualify as single-family properties under most zoning codes.
Single-family detached home:
A freestanding structure with no shared walls, often located in suburban neighborhoods. These homes sit on their own lot with space on all sides, offering maximum privacy and independence. Detached homes typically feature front and back yards, driveways, and complete separation from neighboring properties. This is the most traditional and common form of single-family housing in the United States.
Single-family attached home:
Shares one or more walls with adjacent properties but still sits on its own individual parcel of land. Examples include row houses, certain townhomes, and some planned community developments. Despite the shared wall construction, each unit has its own deed, separate utilities, and distinct property boundaries. The key distinction is that each home is individually owned rather than part of a multi-unit building with shared ownership structure.
Both types are legally considered single-family homes as long as they meet local zoning requirements and use restrictions. The critical factor isn't whether walls are shared, but whether each unit functions as an independent dwelling on its own lot, designed for occupation by a single household.
Why landlords choose single-family homes
For landlords, single-family rentals offer several compelling benefits—especially for those managing a small portfolio or just starting out. The single-family rental market has grown significantly in recent years, with investors recognizing the stability and profitability these properties provide. Unlike apartment buildings that require complex management systems, single-family homes offer a straightforward entry point into real estate investing with competitive appreciation rates and steady cash flow.
1. Long-term tenants
Single-family homes tend to attract families and professionals who stay longer, reducing turnover and vacancy costs. The average tenant in a single-family rental stays approximately three to four years—significantly longer than typical apartment renters who often move every 12-18 months.
Families with school-age children prefer stability and avoid disrupting their kids' education with frequent moves. Professional renters appreciate the space and privacy that comes with a detached home. For landlords, longer tenancy means fewer vacancy periods, reduced marketing costs, and minimal turnover expenses like cleaning and repairs. The time and money saved on tenant turnover significantly boosts overall return on investment.
2. Easier to manage
There are fewer moving parts compared to multifamily units—fewer maintenance calls, fewer lease renewals, and no shared spaces to monitor. With a single-family home, you're dealing with one household, one lease agreement, and one set of expectations.
Multi-unit properties require landlords to manage common areas like hallways, laundry rooms, and parking lots. These shared spaces generate additional maintenance requests, create opportunities for tenant disputes, and add layers of liability. Single-family homes eliminate these complications—each property is self-contained with clearly defined boundaries and responsibilities.
Many landlords successfully manage single-family portfolios while maintaining full-time jobs, something far more difficult with multi-unit properties. You also won't deal with noise complaints between units, disputes over shared amenities, or enforcing building-wide rules across multiple households.
3. Higher tenant quality
Tenants in single-family homes often treat the property as their own, which can result in less wear and tear. When someone rents a house versus an apartment unit, they're more likely to view it as "their home" rather than a temporary living situation.
This sense of ownership translates into better property maintenance—tenants keep up with yard work, report maintenance issues promptly, and take pride in the property's appearance. Many single-family tenants even make minor improvements at their own expense.
Single-family rentals also tend to attract more financially stable tenants. The higher rent typically associated with detached homes naturally filters for renters with stronger income and better credit profiles. These tenants usually have established careers and greater financial responsibility—all factors that contribute to reliable rent payments and respectful property treatment.
4. Strong demand in most markets
In many suburban areas, demand for detached rental homes is rising due to limited inventory and shifting renter preferences. Several factors drive this sustained demand, making single-family rentals increasingly attractive investments.
Homeownership has become less accessible due to rising home prices, stricter lending standards, and high down payment requirements. Many would-be homebuyers are choosing to rent single-family homes instead, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of house living without the financial burden of ownership.
The remote work revolution has also accelerated demand. With more professionals working from home, the need for dedicated office space, yards for children and pets, and separation from neighbors has made single-family homes increasingly attractive. Renters are willing to pay premium rates for the space and privacy that supports their work-from-home lifestyle.
This strong demand creates competitive rental markets where landlords can command higher rents, maintain low vacancy rates, and select from multiple qualified applicants. In markets where housing inventory remains tight, single-family rentals often see consistent appreciation alongside steady rental income.
Insurance for single-family rental properties
If you own and rent out a single-family home, landlord insurance (also known as rental property insurance) is essential. It differs from homeowners insurance, which only covers primary residences.
A landlord policy typically includes:
- Dwelling coverage: Protects the structure from damage (e.g., fire, storm, vandalism)
- Liability protection: Covers legal costs if a tenant or guest is injured on the property
- Loss of rent coverage: Reimburses lost income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered claim
Single-family homes may have fewer claims than multifamily buildings, but they still face risks—especially from natural disasters, slips and falls, and tenant-caused damage.
Is a single-family home right for you as a landlord?
Single-family homes are a popular entry point for new landlords—and for good reason. They offer stable rental income, attract reliable tenants, and require less oversight than larger multifamily buildings.
That said, they may not offer the same cash flow as duplexes or apartment complexes. Your decision should depend on your investment goals, market conditions, and risk tolerance.
More on single-family homes:
- Pros and cons of renting out a single-family home
- Is a single-family home a good investment?
- How to insure a single-family rental property
- Single-family vs. multifamily
Final thoughts
A single-family home is a standalone residential property built for one household—making it one of the most attractive property types for landlords. Whether detached or attached, these homes offer low-maintenance management and strong tenant demand when paired with the right strategy and landlord insurance coverage.
If you’re thinking about buying or already own a single-family rental, make sure you’re protected. A dedicated landlord insurance policy helps safeguard your investment and rental income—so you can focus on growth.
Need landlord insurance for your single-family home? Get a free quote from Steadily in minutes.
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