If you’re in the market for a new home, get ready to check out lots of different options. There’s a whole variety, from standalone houses to condos and everything in between. Understanding the differences between these types of houses can make it easier for you to figure out what suits you best. Let’s take a look at some of the most common property types you can find in Nigeria.
Compact Living
- Cottage: A cottage is a small house often adorned with rustic charm. These homes are perfect for those seeking a quaint and intimate living space. The simplicity and character of cottages appeal to individuals looking for a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Mobile Homes: Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are constructed in factories and then transported to a plot of land. They’re usually among the most affordable housing options available. In many cases, the homeowner owns the home itself but not the land it’s placed on. Instead, they rent the land through a land lease arrangement.
Mid-Range
- Apartment (Flat): These are units within larger buildings, often rented rather than owned. This property type caters to individuals seeking a more communal living experience. Whether in the heart of the city or a suburban setting, apartments offer various options to suit diverse lifestyles.
- Bungalow: Real estate agents often use the term “bungalow” to describe any small house, but true bungalows are specific in their features. They are one or one-and-a-half stories high, offering two or three bedrooms. Typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet, bungalows often come with a front porch or balcony, adding to their charm.
The appeal of bungalows lies in their relatively small size, making them perfect for individuals or families who prefer all their living space on a single floor. This design is particularly beneficial for those facing mobility challenges, providing a convenient and accessible layout.
- Single-Family Home: When you’re thinking about buying a house, you might imagine a single-family home with its own yard and no shared walls. This kind of house could also be a townhouse or a semi-detached home, as long as it’s separated from its neighbors by a wall from the ground to the roof. That means no other homes above or below and no sharing of utilities with neighbors. People who go for single-family homes usually like having more privacy, extra storage space, and more say in decisions about their property.
- Condo: Condos are like apartments in larger buildings where residents own their individual units but share common areas and facilities. So, you get your own space but also enjoy amenities like a gym or a doorman that are shared among everyone. Plus, condos are usually more budget-friendly compared to single-family homes. But keep in mind, there are monthly fees, rules from the homeowners association (HOA), and less privacy to consider as well.
Upper Range
- Duplex/Triplex:
Duplexes are buildings that house two or three separate living units, usually stacked on top of each other, and each unit has its own entrance. They’re designed to accommodate multiple families living independently, much like a building with up to four apartments.
One of the advantages of duplexes, triplexes, or multi-family homes is that homeowners can live in one unit while renting out the others or accommodate extended family members. Additionally, they provide the option for close but separate living spaces, which can be beneficial for relatives who need frequent assistance, such as elderly parents.
- Maisonette: A maisonette, sometimes spelled “maisonnette,” is a special type of home that spreads across two floors of a building and has its very own entrance. These homes, like the $3 million Dozek’s Pelican Cove, are usually located in city areas and often found within bigger buildings, like apartment complexes.
Picture a maisonette as a two-story home with its private entrance. It’s a common sight in city living, snugly fitting into larger buildings such as apartment complexes. These homes come with cool features like a personal entrance, two floors with separate living and bedroom spaces, and a staircase inside. Maisonettes give homeowners the best of both worlds – the privacy and roominess of a house, along with the convenience and perks of apartment living. - Villa: Villas are the personification of luxurious living, exuding an aura of opulence and grandeur Often associated with vacation or second homes, these spacious houses offer ample living space and lavish amenities. Whether nestled in scenic landscapes or overlooking pristine beaches, villas provide a retreat from the ordinary.
As you embark on your home-buying journey, consider the diverse range of property types available. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of a cottage, the convenience of a condo, or the luxury of a villa, there’s a perfect home out there waiting for you. Happy house hunting!
