Dilemma house or duplex need to move home financial reasons

Sparkle 40

My apologies if this is the wrong place to post. Widow. Cannot decide between 2 options. 2 children started secondary school. Im getting older and some health issues.Option 1. Kids friends not far from duplex.(1min walk) Smallish estate. Top floor. Good ber but no garden. No maintenance. 1 other duplex either side and below. Worried re noise mainly. 2nd option older house opposite side of town. Low ber rating. Worried re maintenance but own garden and privacy. Kids will have to travel to friends. (20/25 min walk) Both 3 beds. Cannot afford any houses nearer side of town to kids friends only duplex. What would you do. Thank you for reading.

Caranica

I've lived in a duplex for 13 years and love it. Management fees can be significant though depending on the development. Outside space is communal, has its plusses and minuses

Ursus Horribilis

I assume you'd need to climb steps to get into the duplex? Is that something that could become an issue? Another thing you might need to consider - if you're looking at this as a forever home - is what might need to be done if you become immobile. Is there downstairs toilet in the house? Would you need to convert it or extend?

silverharp

Have you considered an apartment? it would be future proof and you wouldn't need to move again.