The Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Property Types

Buying a property is never an easy task, but by being aware of the different advantages and disadvantages of different property types, you will be able to make more informed decisions.

In this post, we are going to explore the different advantages and disadvantages of four main property types; apartments, detached houses, townhouses and houses of character.

Looking at the different pros and cons of these property types is the first step in understanding which property type suits your lifestyle and needs. 

Apartments

Advantages:

• Many apartments nowadays are being sold with the latest modern design finishings and soundproof walls, double glazed windows and balcony doors. You will not need to make changes to it unless you buy an old one.
• The block owners pay an annual contribution for repairs and maintenance of the common parts
• Certain amenities, such as security and a community pool or yard, may be included.
• Availability. It is less problematic to find an apartment in the area you desire than finding a house, as they come in wider supply. Moreover, your apartment may have excellent views of the countryside, beach, etc.
• Apartments are usually situated close to amenities such as shops and offices, and many can be found in most town centres. An apartment in the centre means you are likely to be just a few meters away from all you need.
• Easier to keep clean and tidy. Apartments are smaller and require less cleaning, which could allow you to have more time on your hands especially if you have a busy lifestyle.
• The size of apartments also results in spending less on electricity, gas, water etc. 
• Security and safety. Most complexes are usually protected with a gated system or secure entrance and many have multiple cameras to cover the building.

Disadvantages:

• Although modern apartments have soundproof walls, privacy might still be an issue.
• Parking can be a problem if the complex doesn’t have a garage.
• Space is limited, especially personal outdoor space. You most likely will not have a backyard or garden, although you might share a communal garden. 
• Styling restrictions. Whilst finding a ready-to-move into apartment can be extremely convenient, on the other hand aesthetic regulations of the block may not allow you to make any changes to common parts such as painting the walls to the colour you desire, or enclosing balconies etc.

TERRACED HOUSE

A terraced house is a house connected to others on either side in a row, usually with space for a small backyard, although some may have sizeable gardens.

Advantages:

• Size and location can differ. However, a terraced house usually offers a balance of affordability and privacy.
• A terraced house is ideal for a family or a couple who want a home without others living above or below them, and perhaps want a yard or small garden for entertaining.
• A townhouse is a terraced house built in a particular period, and which also carries particular Maltese rustic character.

Disadvantages:

• Some walls are shared with neighbours, which decreases privacy.
• Townhouses might still retain some old features which may not suit everyone’s tastes.
• Depending on the house, the way it is structured might not be able to offer an open-plan layout for your family, should that be what you want.
• The garden or backyard might be too small for some families.

Detached House

A detached house is a single structure with surrounding garden, though it can vary in terms of architecture, layout and size.

Advantages:

• Offers great space and privacy
• Usually has a surrounding garden; great for families with children and to entertain
• Possibility of a pool, or space for a pool
• Value usually increases over time especially if it is well maintained, which makes it a great investment
• Detached houses allows for more space, whether for living or for storage.

Disadvantages:

• The more space you have, the more it will cost to maintain and run.
• Cleaning is a bigger job.
• Prices may be higher than other types of homes.

House of Character

Beautiful and authentic, house of characters have a unique personality and are a historic wonder in themselves.

However, on the downside, such a house can come with steep maintenance and renovation or modernisation costs.

Advantages

• It is very likely that you will pay less for an older home like this. Of course, it also depends on its condition, but generally, a modern house of more or less the same size will cost more. Therefore, you may get great space for a great price.
• Depending on the state of conversion (this would not apply for unconverted houses of character) in some cases you will be able to move in immediately and have renovations done whilst you are settled in your home. Whilst this might be inconvenient due to the inconvenience that refurbishing may entail, at least you won’t have to wait for the place to be habitable. When you buy a new property in shell form, you may have to wait a year or more before you can move into the property. 

Disadvantages

• Whilst an older home will cost you less for the great space it provides, at the same time, if it is in a bad state, it can cost you a lot to restore and renovate. For example, the plumbing and electricity might not conform with modern building requirements. This is why it is important to look at and consider the state of different systems in a home e.g. wiring, plumbing, air conditioning, etc. to make sure they are modern, efficient and safe. Replacing these systems can be expensive. Older apertures may also need to be replaced and maybe better insulation put in place. Be sure to check what kind of external apertures are allowed by the planning authority, as timber may be compulsory, and in some places wrought iron windows may not be replaced.

We hope you have found our post helpful! Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help finding your dream home. We will be more than happy to find the right property for you.

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