In recent years, with the continuous rise of housing prices, Duplex (double-family villas) has become more and more popular in Australia. First, Duplex is cheaper than Free standing house. Second, compared with Townhouse, Duplex occupies a larger area, is more private, and holds more value. It is worth mentioning that some Duplexes have independent titles, which are not much different from independent houses. Due to the low development cost and short development cycle, double-family villas are very popular among ordinary investors and small developers. According to a real estate consultant, the difference between Duplex and Townhouses lies in their respective designs. Townhouses are designed for those who want to own a plot of land under their feet and a piece of sky overhead, while the ownership of a townhouse brings them land, sky, garden, and garage. Furthermore, developers in North American private neighborhoods focus on distinctiveness and style, packaging community amenities such as expensive materials, dramatic master bedroom/bathroom suites, and integrated but distinctive design based on traditional and vernacular styling.

1. What is a Duplex?

Duplex refers to a project where two houses can be built on one piece of land. In most cases, the two houses have a common wall (Attached Dual Occupancy)or can not be connected at all (Detached Dual Occupancy).

As for whether the land can be divided, different councils in the urban area of Sydney have different regulations, which can be roughly divided into three categories:

The first type: split into independent title (Torrens Title). This means that each half of the duplex has its own title and can be sold as a separate property.

The second category: split fractional lease (Strata Title).

This means the property is divided into separate lots, but there are common areas and facilities that must be shared between residents.

The third category: Allows to apply for Dual Occupancy, but does not allow strata.

2. What are the benefits of choosing a Duplex over other housing types in Australia?

There are several benefits to choosing a Duplex over other housing types in Australia.

Firstly, Duplex tends to be cheaper than free-standing houses. Secondly, compared to Townhouses, Duplexes occupy a larger area, provide more privacy and hold greater value. In addition, some Duplexes come with independent titles, which are almost indistinguishable from independent houses. Finally, the low development cost and short development cycle make double-family villas popular among ordinary investors and small developers.

3. How do people’s activities in a community change due to the design of Duplexes and Townhouses?

The design of Duplexes and Townhouses can affect the type of activities that people engage in within a community. In communities where the building area of each residential land is large and private outdoor space is limited, people are more likely to engage in public activities, showcasing the rich and diverse building appearances that can change the landscape on both sides of the street. This can also help to strengthen the community atmosphere. Similarly, the ownership of a Townhouse brings with it land, sky, garden and garage. This design is intended for people who want to own a plot of land while also having access to shared community amenities and facilities.

4. Several points of concern when purchasing Duplex.

The most concerned question for those who want to develop double-family villas is whether the land can be developed?

Therefore, it is critical to thoroughly research the local zoning laws and regulations in the area where you intend to purchase a Duplex. Another point of concern is whether the Duplex has an independent title, which can impact its value and overall desirability. Additionally, it’s important to consider the quality of construction and materials used in the Duplex. Furthermore, buyers must also consider factors such as location, amenities available nearby, and the reputation of the developer.

First, check the LEP (Local Environment Plan) description of the nature of the land, and check whether the types of development include Dual Occupancy or Semi-detached Dwelling. Looking at SECTION 149 in the sales contract, the report will describe the nature of the land use.

For example, the nature of the land of most detached houses in Sydney is R2 Zoning Low-Density Residential), please check whether there is Dual Occupancy or Semi-detached Dwelling under the terms of Permitted with consent.

In addition to the impact of the nature of the land, many factors will affect the development of double-family villas, which need to be analyzed in more detail. Common factors that affect development are:

Requirements for the minimum land area (very important)

Requirements for face width (very important, too narrow cannot be built.)

Is the land square? Is there any way to remedy the inconsistency?

Are you in the Flooding Zone?

Is it in Bush Fire Prone Land?

Can the trees on the land be cut down?

Is the existing house heritage? (If it is, it is difficult to demolish it)

Are there drainage issues?

Can a subdivision be done?

If it is possible to divide the lease, is it Torrens Title or Strata Title?