RE: Realtors: Americans prefer smart growth communities
I wouldn't ever want to live in an apartment-type building with shared hallways, elevator/stairs, laundry room, and parking garage again. I like my privacy too much. But I would consider living in a townhome so long as I had my own private garage, front entrance, and laundry room/area.
The main reason why we purchased a SFR over a townhome is because we wanted a 4th bedroom since we now have 3 kids. Nearly all the townhomes in our area have only 2 or 3 BR.