Open for inspection: The best townhouses on the market across Australia

With the Federal Government rolling out major changes to the first home buyer scheme, many buyers are now hunting for properties that sit within the new state-based price caps.

As house prices continue to climb, townhouses are emerging as an appealing option by offering the chance to secure a home in a sought-after suburb without stretching the budget or giving up valuable space. They're also a smart choice for downsizers who want the ease of low-maintenance living, but prefer more room and privacy than an apartment can offer.

From a striking architectural townhouse in Thornbury to a stylish beachfront complex in Palm Beach, here are some of the best townhouses currently for sale across Australia.

View Living Senior Reporter, January Jones gives her pick of the property listings.

Victoria: Architectural luxury in Thornbury

With house-like proportions and a backyard to boot, this Thornbury townhouse is ideal for buyers prioritising space and location. The property features four bedrooms, two with ensuites and walk-in-robes, the others with built-in-robes, and three bathrooms plus a powder room.

The home has been finished with the finest details including chevron-patterned floorboards, Italian travertine tiles, floating sheers and a Calacatta Viola marble island bench. The open-plan kitchen features a butler's pantry and premium appliances.

Unlike your typical townhouse, this home has a true backyard featuring an alfresco area, built-in BBQ and newly planted fruit trees. The back gate also offers private access to Hayes Park, perfect for buyers with pets or kids.

Modern living in Richmond

Ever dreamed of living in a home with history? Well look no further than this townhouse in the historic GTV-9 site. Located in Richmond, the building was originally the Wertheim Piano Factory, before becoming home to Melbourne's Television City.

Despite the building being redeveloped into contemporary homes, the property still contains many charming details from the past including double-height ceilings, steel-framed windows and the original hardwood staircase.

For buyers wanting to be in the thick of it, this property is ideal. Just moments from all that Swan Street and Bridge Road have to offer, the home provides easy access to the CBD and Yarra River's walking and cycling trails.

New South Wales: Architectural design in Palm Beach

This is no ordinary townhouse. Located in Palm Beach's luxury beachfront complex 'The Anchorage', the freestanding home provides the very best of coastal living. Redesigned in 2020 by architect Rob Brown, the home features a clean, modern design with an open-plan layout.

Set over two floors, the lower level features two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large family room. Upstairs offers a living, dining and kitchen area with powder room and an entertaining deck with ocean views.

One of four in a boutique block, the property is perfect for buyers keen for luxurious coastal living and a lock-and-leave lifestyle.

Queensland: Luxurious living in Balmoral

Set in a boutique complex of only three townhouses, this property in Balmoral features stylish design in a sought-after location. The modern two-level home includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms and parking for two cars.

The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area leads out onto a deck with tree-top views, while the upper level includes the bedrooms, bathrooms and a balcony from the master. The interior is bright and light-filled with timber floors and stone benchtops.

This neat and tidy property is ideal for families or couples wanting to get into the prestigious area, but may not have the budget for a freestanding house.

Tasmania: Mountain views in Lenah Valley

Part of the St Andrews church hall conversion, this Lenah Valley townhouse comes with a money-can't-buy feature, a stunning backdrop of nearby kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Inside the fully-renovated home are two bedrooms, two bathrooms and two car spots.

The first level features kitchen, living and dining, along with a study, bathroom and outdoor entertaining deck. The upper level includes the two bedrooms - the master with an ensuite and walk-in-robe.

South Australia: Comfort and convenience in Dover Gardens

Contemporary, comfortable and convenient, this townhouse in Dover Gardens is move-in ready. Built in 2021, the home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and off-street parking. A low-maintenance courtyard adds to the easy lifestyle.

Ideally located, the property is in close proximity to public transport, Flinders University, Westfield Marion and SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre.