Prospective buyers or renters often weigh the pros of different property types. Two popular options in urban and suburban areas are maisonettes and apartments. While both offer unique living experiences, they have distinct characteristics that appeal to different preferences.
Maisonette
A maisonette, derived from the French word for “little house,” is a type of property that combines elements of both houses and apartments. Maisonettes typically span two floors within a larger building and offer an unusual living arrangement that sets them apart from traditional single-story flats. Maisonettes have:
- Multiple floors (usually two)
- Separate entrance from the street or communal area
- Often part of a larger building or complex
- May include outdoor space like a small garden or terrace
Apartment
An apartment, also known as a flat in some regions, is a self-contained housing unit that occupies only one level within a building containing several similar units. Apartments are the most common and well-known urban option. Critical features of apartments:
- Single-level living space
- Shared entrance and common areas with other units
- Part of a larger building or complex
- May include a balcony or shared outdoor spaces
Now that we’ve defined both property types, let’s compare them across several essential factors. This will help you decide which option is better suited to your needs.
- Space and layout
Maisonettes
- Generally, offer more living space due to their multi-level design
- Provide a house-like feel with separate areas for living and sleeping
- Often features more storage space
- May feel more spacious due to the vertical separation of rooms
Apartments
- Typically have a compact, open-plan layout
- All rooms are on one level, which benefits accessibility
- May feel more confined, especially in smaller units
- Often have less storage space than maisonettes
Maisonettes for sale might be preferred for those seeking a more spacious feel and layout similar to a house. If you value simplicity and easy navigation within your home, an apartment could be the better choice.
- Privacy and noise
Maisonettes
- Often have a private entrance, reducing interaction with neighbours
- Multi-level design can isolate noise between living and sleeping areas
- May share fewer walls with neighbouring units
- Potential for more privacy, mainly if it includes outdoor space
Apartments
- Usually share entrances and corridors
- More likely to hear neighbours due to shared walls and a single-level layout
- Privacy is limited, particularly in high-density buildings
- Noise from above and below is an issue
A maisonette might offer advantages over a typical apartment if privacy and noise reduction are priorities. However, privacy levels vary depending on the specific building and location.
- Outdoor space
Maisonettes
- More likely to have a private outdoor space like a small garden or terrace
- May offer a sense of owning a piece of land, even in an urban setting
- Opportunity for gardening or outdoor relaxation
Apartments
- Often limited to balconies or shared communal spaces
- Less maintenance required for outdoor areas
- May have access to shared amenities like roof gardens or courtyards
maisonettes for sale in Malta might appeal to those who value private outdoor space. Apartments offer outdoor experiences through shared spaces and require less maintenance.
- Costs and maintenance
Maisonettes
- Generally, more expensive to purchase or rent due to the larger size
- May have higher heating and cooling costs due to multiple levels
- Potential for more maintenance responsibilities, especially if outdoor space is included
- Could have higher property taxes depending on local regulations
Apartments
- Usually more affordable to buy or rent
- Lower utility costs due to smaller size and shared building expenses
- Less individual maintenance required
- Often have lower property taxes
Maisonettes offer more space and privacy but cost more. Regardless of your choice, maisonettes and apartments provide comfortable and convenient living spaces. Make an informed decision by visiting multiple properties, considering your current and future needs, and consulting with a real estate professional.
