What Is a Single-Family Home? A Guide for Landlords and Investors

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.

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?

This type of home is typically a detached, standalone structure built for one household. It occupies its own lot, has a private entrance, and doesn’t share walls or utilities with other units. In rental housing, single-family homes are popular because they offer tenants privacy and landlords straightforward management.

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
  

These homes are usually zoned for single-family use, meaning they are intended for one household—not multiple tenants or units under the same roof.

Types of Single-Family Homes: Attached vs. Detached

While most people picture a single-family detached home—a house with a yard and no shared walls—there are other variations worth noting.

• Single-family detached home: A freestanding structure with no shared walls, often in suburban neighborhoods.
• Single-family attached home: Shares one or more walls with adjacent properties but still sits on its own parcel (e.g., row houses or some townhomes).
  

Both are legally considered single-family homes as long as they meet zoning and use requirements.
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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.

1. Long-Term Tenants

Single-family homes tend to attract families and professionals who stay longer, reducing turnover and vacancy costs.

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.

3. Higher Tenant Quality

Tenants in single-family homes often treat the property as their own, which can result in less wear and tear.

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.

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.

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 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.