Housing in America

Understanding the “American housing” landscape is crucial for ESL learners, like yourself. Especially if you are planning to live independently. Unlike some countries with a centralized system, housing options in the US are diverse. Today’s vocabulary will help you understand deposit requirements, renter's rights, common scams, and much more that will empower you to make informed decisions and feel secure in your living situation.

In today’s lesson, you’re going to have:

• 5 advanced English vocabulary words about Housing in America.

• 15 examples of phrases that you can use on a daily basis.

• Eye-catching images will help you learn and retain the vocabulary.

1. Condominium (Condo)

📚 DEFINITION

A type of housing unit within a larger complex or building, where each unit is individually owned, and residents share common areas and facilities.

📄 Example Sentences:

1. They purchased a condominium downtown, enjoying amenities such as a gym and rooftop terrace.

2. Condos are popular among retirees who want to downsize from larger homes but still enjoy community living.

3. The condominium association is responsible for maintaining shared spaces like the lobby and parking garage.

BECOME A PREMIUM MEMBER
Only $1/month

✔️ Audio file version for each vocabulary
✔️ 25+ English PDFs each month

2. Townhouse

📚 DEFINITION

A narrow, multi-story home that shares one or more walls with adjacent units, often forming a row of similar homes.

📄 Example Sentences:

1. They live in a townhouse with a small backyard and access to a communal swimming pool.

2. Townhouses offer more privacy than apartments but require less maintenance than detached houses.

3. The neighborhood consists of charming townhouses built in the early 20th century.

3. Duplex

📚 DEFINITION

A residential building divided into two separate living units, typically side by side or one above the other, each with its own entrance.

📄 Example Sentences:

1. The duplex has one unit on the ground floor and another on the second floor, each with its own kitchen and living space.

2. They rented out one side of the duplex to help cover the mortgage payments.

3. Duplexes are popular in urban areas where space is limited, and housing costs are high.

4. Mortgage

📚 DEFINITION

A loan secured by real estate property, typically used to purchase a home, where the borrower makes monthly payments over a specified period.

📄 Example Sentences:

1. They applied for a mortgage to buy their first house, agreeing to a 30-year repayment plan.

2. Rising interest rates can affect monthly mortgage payments for homeowners.

3. The bank approved their mortgage application after verifying their credit history and income.

5. Foreclosure

📚 DEFINITION

The legal process by which a lender repossesses a property due to the owner's inability to make mortgage payments, often resulting in the sale of the property to recover the debt.

📄 Example Sentences:

1. The economic downturn led to an increase in foreclosures across the country.

2. They faced foreclosure after falling behind on mortgage payments following a job loss.

3. The bank auctioned off the foreclosed property to recoup the unpaid loan amount.

BECOME A PREMIUM MEMBER
Only $1/month

✔️ Audio file version for each vocabulary
✔️ 25+ English PDFs each month

Speak English with Tiffani APP

English Video For You

English Resource for You