If you long to live in a home of your own but most of the houses in your desired area are outside your budget, a townhouse can be an excellent compromise. A townhouse combines the beauty and functionality of a traditional house with the economy of an apartment. Here are four ways you can make a townhouse into your dream home:

1. Decide if you need a yard.

When it comes to backyards, everyone has a different opinion. Some people need a yard to be happy, especially if they're pet owners or gardening enthusiasts. Meanwhile, some people enjoy an outdoor area but could easily forgo it. When shopping for a new townhouse, you should decide if a backyard is a priority for you. It's possible to purchase a townhouse with a yard, but doing so will limit your options to ground-floor homes. If you can live without a backyard, you'll have more options and may be able to get a better deal on the price.

2. Hire an interior designer.

When it comes to decorating your space, sometimes you could use a little help. A professional interior designer has extensive experience in styling home interiors. They can guide you in purchasing furniture, art, and other elements for your new home.

Rest assured that you can provide as little or as much input as you like. If you have strong opinions on what your house should look like, your interior designer can work around them. If you're lost and need more guidance, your townhouse interior designer can do most of the ideation while still taking your preferences into account.

3. Invest in modular furniture.

Furniture is a big ticket item. Since it's one of the bigger purchases you'll be making for your new townhouse, it's important to choose wisely. If you like to change up the look in your house on a regular basis, consider investing in modular furniture. Modular furniture is modern and chic, and it's also highly versatile. Rearrange your modular furniture whenever it suits you to totally transform your space.

4. Utilize vertical storage.

Townhouses are usually smaller than traditional houses, but with some smart storage solutions, that doesn't need to be a hindrance. Utilize your vertical space when it comes to storage. Look for bookshelves and cabinets that have height and a small footprint to maximize your floor space. If you require additional storage, don't forget that you can attach shelving to your walls.