Townhouse as first rental property??

[Jade Jamison]

Hi Bigger Pockets Family,

I am interested in purchasing my first rental property and am stuck between choosing a SFH or townhome. I was pre-approved for 200,000, which is not a significant amount ESPECIALLY in my area (DMV: DC, MD, Virginia...looking in Maryland). So I am pretty positive townhomes are the most realistic option for me. So my question is:

1. What are the benefits/cons to having a townhouse rental property

2. Can you renovate the interior of a townhome? (Very real example: If I want to add a bedroom, breakdown a wall, or make the basement a 2nd suite?)

3. Although I plan to hold and rent the property, I hear townhomes don't appreciate much, so even with renovations inside, if I think about selling in the future, is there a chance I can still have equity/profit?

Thank you! If there's anything else you can think of about renting out townhomes...I'd love to hear!!!