What Is a Duplex?

You may have seen the term “duplex” used in a real estate ad or mentioned on a home remodeling show, but aren’t sure what exactly it refers to. We are here to explain what it is, what the main features of this type of property are, its advantages and disadvantages, so that you can decide if this type of home is right for you.

In short, a duplex is an apartment consisting of two separate living units attached to each other. Two separate units create a two-part building that shares a wall and can also share other outdoor spaces such as a driveway, porch or backyard. Unlike a typical apartment building, which may contain several individual apartments, the term “duplex” refers to a building containing only two apartments.

Read on to learn more about this popular type of home.

Features of a Duplex Home

Typically, a duplex appears symmetrical, but its main feature is the common wall between the two separate living units. The building has two separate entrances and usually has two garages – two apartments are usually located next to each other, although there are cases where apartments are located on top of each other.

Sometimes you’ll see a one-story duplex that looks like two single-family homes attached to each other, especially in suburban areas. In urban areas, multi-story townhouse-style duplexes are popular because they take advantage of vertical space.

In addition to a common wall, two apartments in an apartment sometimes share other rooms. These may include porches, driveways or parking lots, and backyards that are open rather than separated by a fence. Apartments usually have the same layout and their facades are identical on both external sides of the apartment to ensure visual continuity.

Differences Between a Duplex, an Apartment, and a Single-Family Home

In some ways, a duplex is a cross between an apartment and a single-family home. It is similar to an apartment in the sense that your living unit is attached to another apartment located next to, above or below it, however, a duplex building can never have more than one or two apartments, which is not the case with an apartment. House.

Unlike an apartment, it also offers open space, demonstrating its similarity to a single-family home. It is about the same size as a single-family home, has a separate entrance and can have an attached garage.

A detached house is a household living independently. However, a single-family home may have an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a smaller, separate dwelling located on the same lot. An ADU can be a free-standing building or attached to a single-family home, either as an addition or as a separate interior. Unlike duplexes, ADU residents share a mailing address and utilities with a single-family home. In some areas, ADUs are not rentals or intended to be rentals, so they are often home to large families.

Advantages and disadvantages of duplex
One of the main advantages of a duplex is that it can be a great investment if you buy both apartments and decide to rent one, whether long-term or for a vacation. This can be an additional source of income, as well as a way to help you pay off your mortgage and build equity. It can also be a great way to accommodate multiple generations of a family on a large plot of land, with each family having their own living space.

Another benefit that many home buyers appreciate about a duplex is that it is less expensive than a single-family home. You get most of the benefits of owning a single-family home, but at a lower cost. Keep in mind that duplex apartments are typically smaller in size than a single-family home, and you may have to share some outdoor areas with neighbors or renters.

The main disadvantage of a duplex is the potential noise level due to the shared wall. Of course, this depends on the number of people living in the attached apartment and the rooms shared by the common wall. In some cases, a common wall is placed between the garage and the non-sleeping room to minimize the noise level in both apartments.

You may have more space and privacy than if you lived in an apartment, but you will still have a roommate. Some areas will still be divided and responsibilities, as well as occasional seasonal maintenance costs, may have to be split between the owners of the two units. Another potential disadvantage of a duplex apartment is the possibility of a lower resale value2. It may be more difficult to sell than a single-family home because buyers may be concerned about availability. The area is located next door and does not have complete privacy.

Is Duplex the right choice for you?
Duplexes are a great choice if you’re looking for a property with income potential because you can live in one and be close to the apartment you’re renting. It can also provide a place for a large multi-generational family to live together while enjoying their own space and privacy. If you’re looking to move out of an apartment or downsize from a large home, don’t mind sharing some common areas with neighbors, and aren’t too sensitive to potential noise, then a duplex could be a great new home for you. .