24. Property types

"Property type" refers to the specific category or classification of a residential dwelling based on its architectural design, layout, and characteristics. Different property types offer distinct features, advantages, and suitability for various lifestyles and preferences. Here are definitions of common property types:

House

• A house is a standalone residential dwelling typically constructed as a single-family home. Houses can vary in size, layout, and architectural style, ranging from detached properties with surrounding land to semi-detached or terraced houses that share common walls with neighbouring properties. 
• Houses often feature multiple floors, including living areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and sometimes additional spaces such as basements, attics, or garages. They may have private outdoor spaces such as gardens, yards, or patios. 

Bungalow

• A bungalow is a single-story residential dwelling characterised by its low profile and horizontal orientation. Bungalows are designed to provide convenient and accessible living spaces, typically without the need for stairs or multiple levels. 
• Bungalows often feature an open floor plan with rooms arranged on a single level, offering easy access and navigation for residents of all ages and mobility levels. They may include amenities such as porches, verandas, or outdoor living spaces. 

Flat

• A flat, also known as an apartment, is a self-contained residential unit within a larger building or complex. Flats are typically vertically stacked and share common areas, entrances, and facilities with other units in the building. 
• Flats vary in size and layout but generally include living areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens within a compact floor plan. They may be located on one or more floors of a building and may have access to shared amenities such as elevators, stairwells, corridors, and communal spaces. 

Maisonette

• A maisonette is a type of residential dwelling that occupies multiple floors within a building or complex but has its own private entrance and facilities, distinguishing it from traditional flats or apartments. 
• Maisonettes are typically arranged over two or more levels, with living areas on one floor and bedrooms or additional living spaces on another. They offer the privacy and autonomy of a standalone property while benefiting from shared amenities and services provided by the building or complex. 

House/bungalow types 

The house or bungalow type refers to the specific architectural style and layout of a residential dwelling, with variations such as detached, semi-detached, terraced, or end terrace. These terms describe how properties are positioned in relation to neighbouring dwellings and whether they share common walls or boundaries.

Here's a breakdown of each type: 

Detached 

• A detached house or bungalow is a standalone residential dwelling that is not attached to any other properties. It stands alone on its own plot of land, with space on all sides, including front, back, and often one or both sides. 
• Detached properties offer maximum privacy, space, and autonomy for homeowners. They typically have their own private gardens or outdoor areas and are not directly connected to neighbouring properties. 

Semi-Detached 

• A semi-detached house or bungalow shares one common wall with an adjacent property, with each property occupying half of a larger building structure. Semi-detached properties are mirror images of each other, with separate entrances and individual living spaces. 
• Semi-detached properties offer a balance between privacy and affordability. They share a party wall with the neighbouring property but maintain separate outdoor spaces and living areas. Semi-detached homes are common in suburban and urban residential areas. 

Terraced 

• A terraced house or bungalow is part of a row of properties connected by party walls on both sides. Terraced properties share common walls with neighbouring dwellings, forming a continuous row or terrace of houses along a street or block. 
• Terraced properties are characterised by their uniformity and compact layout. They typically have smaller outdoor spaces, such as backyards or gardens, and may feature similar architectural designs and façades. Terraced houses are common in urban areas with limited space. 

End Terrace 

• An end terrace house or bungalow is located at the end of a row of terraced properties. It shares one common wall with a neighbouring property on one side but has an open side with no adjacent dwelling, often facing onto a street, pathway, or green space. 
• End terrace properties offer additional privacy and natural light compared to mid-terrace houses. They typically have larger outdoor spaces on one side and may feature unique architectural details or design elements. End terrace houses are sought after for their combination of privacy and convenience.