If you enjoy the advantages of living in a house but aren’t quite ready to own property yet, a duplex might be a great option for you. A duplex is a house with two separate units in one building. These units share one or more walls and are usually side-by-side or stacked on top of each other. Duplexes will have two separate entrances for each unit and each side are usually similar in size. Typically, each side will also have its own kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms but there are some instances where these spaces might be shared. There are also triplexes and quadplexes which have three or four units in one building.
The Difference Between a Duplex and an Apartment
Unlike an apartment, a single person or entity such as an LLC owns a duplex. Both sides of the duplex can be rented out, but it’s common for the owner to live on one side and rent out the other side. Duplexes often have amenities that might be more difficult to find in apartment buildings such as a driveway, garage, and back yard.
Is a duplex right for you?
According to the National Multifamily Housing Council, about 17 percent of renters live in a duplex, triplex, or quadplex. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider before signing your next lease.
Advantages of living in a duplex
- You will share a building with one other person: Instead of sharing space with an entire complex of people, you only have to worry about sharing one wall with one person and it might be quieter (unless you have a noisy neighbor).
- You can keep loved ones close: If your landlord doesn’t live in the duplex, or if both units are vacant, a family member or friend can live on the other side. This way, you’ll be nearby but you still maintain a sense of privacy.
- You can live in a central location or more expensive area: With a duplex, living expenses and rent are lower because the cost of a single lot is split between two units. Since rent is typically lower than a traditional apartment, you might be able to live in a trendier area, especially if you live in a city.
- You’ll have more space: Many duplexes have garages, patios, and backyards so you’ll have more space to enjoy. Duplexes are generally more spacious than the average apartment and some even have more than one floor. Duplexes might also be a good choice if you’re looking for a pet-friendly rental for a larger dog.
- No more lugging clothes on laundry day: Many duplexes have in-unit washers and dryers, so you won’t have to go to the laundromat.
Disadvantages of living in a duplex
- Your neighbor might be your landlord: Some renters aren’t comfortable with the idea of living next to their landlord and prefer complete privacy.
- Noise: Depending on how well insulated the units are, sharing a wall can be difficult even if there is only one person living on the other side of the duplex.
- You might be responsible for more maintenance: Since many duplexes are privately owned, you might have to help maintain your side of the property. For example, you might have to mow the lawn or trim any greenery. If you live in a colder area, you might have to shovel snow and salt any icy patches you see.
- You must ask permission to make changes: Although a duplex is a house, similar to living in an apartment, you must ask your landlord for permission before you paint a wall or install shelves. You will also have to get permission for anything added to your outdoor space like a vegetable garden, hammock, or grill.
- No 24/7 or on-site maintenance: Unlike apartment complexes, there won’t be any on-site maintenance even if your landlord lives next door. You will have to contact your landlord and wait until they are available to come over and fix the problem or hire a professional to complete the job.
Duplexes offer many advantages like more space and privacy that apartments can’t provide. However, if you enjoy the convenience of on-site maintenance or don’t want to live next door to your landlord, a traditional apartment is probably a better choice. If you’re looking for an affordable option in a trendy neighborhood, enjoy the look of a house, and don’t mind doing light yard work, a duplex might be a great fit.
