Duplexes

A duplex is a type of residential structure that contains two independent homes sharing a common wall. Depending on the land plot and positioning on the street, they are generally built side by side, and in other cases front and back. While existing as two dwellings under one roof, their functioning as individual homes are completely separate, each with their own entrances, garages and amenities. A duplex also doesn’t necessarily need to have each unit be a mirror image or identical to the other and can be designed to look like a singular, cohesive house.

Neither! While a duplex has the dual shared element that doesn’t quite classify it as a detached dwelling, it has a lot of benefits that make it differ vastly from an apartment. You only have one neighbouring party, giving you greater privacy and an easier means to negotiate changes to the property, as well as open outdoor space and the ability to freely own pets. In other words, a duplex lies somewhere in between a detached house and an apartment but takes the best features of each. You can essentially enjoy almost all of the advantages of a detached house, have it pay itself off and negate having to bear the complete cost of the land in the long run.

There are several advantages of building a duplex, especially in Sydney where it is increasingly harder to find premium land at affordable prices and available plots are tighter than ever. The main benefit is that with a duplex you are able to house two parties on one property. This opens up a multitude of options for occupancy and rental income. For example, duplexes are great for multi-generational living. Whether it’s between parents and married children, siblings or an elderly relative, there is the convenience and affordability of living under the same roof while still having the comfort, privacy and independence of your own space. Duplexes are also a dependable source of strategic investment. You could potentially live on one side while renting out the other half to relieve financial strain and pay off mortgage repayments much quicker. Alternatively, you could also double down on your investment and rent both sides, receiving an even bigger yield on your property and diversifying your revenue streams.

With these various land value-optimising means in mind, duplexes are also a way to afford building up in older, more expensive suburbs and premium areas. By building a duplex you ensure that you are developing and utilising the whole block of land, which will generously grow your capital and return on investment. A duplex is also an ideal option to consider for retirees or home dwellers looking to downsize but wishing to remain in the same suburb or area.

The cost of building a duplex is comparable to building a regular freestanding house of the same size. Where costs combine to become partially higher occurs in the need to double the amenities on the property. Building two independent homes on the same plot means that you’ll need two kitchens and more bathrooms, which both require more expensive materials and built-ins, as well as more specialised expertise and trade. Special care must also be taken to ensure that the duplex is designed and built to meet the appropriate zoning, area and drainage requirements, which varies from council to council. However, when you consider the fact that you are essentially doubling the rental income capacity and occupancy potential for a single plot of land, these costs will pay themselves off in the long run.

With over 20 years of industry experience, Meridian Homes has been trusted by hardworking Australians as their Duplex Builders Sydney. We pride ourselves on transparency and are committed to working alongside you every step of the process to fully realize and maximise your property’s investment potential. It’s important to work with specialists when developing and building duplexes, and you can feel confident knowing that with us there are no extra fees or surprise costs and that we aim to source the most quality materials for an affordable price.

If you’re new to the concept of dual occupancy dwellings, we offer some of the newest duplex designs and options to deliver the ultimate living lifestyle for you and your family. However, we understand that building your first or next home is not always a one-fits-all. That’s why we assure that our duplexes can be customised to best suit your goals, living and family needs. Contact us to find out how we can assist you in maximising your land value and building your next dream home.

The cost of building a duplex is comparable to building a regular freestanding house of the same size. Where costs combine to become partially higher occurs in the need to double the amenities on the property. Building two independent homes on the same plot means that you’ll need two kitchens and more bathrooms.  When you consider the fact that you are essentially doubling the rental income capacity and occupancy potential for a single plot of land, these costs will pay themselves off in the long run. If you would like further information on pricing contact us here.