Types of Houses: Understanding Which One Suits Your Lifestyle
Before you purchase a home, it’s best to know what types of houses you can choose from. There are lots of options for you to pick from, ranging from compact choices to sizable ones to those that are part of a bigger structure.
Choosing the right type of home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying property. Your choice needs to reflect your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. With so many different house types available, understanding what’s out there can help you make a more informed decision.
Let’s explore some of the different types of houses and their features to determine which one suits you best before you think about taking on a mortgage.
Detached Houses
Detached houses are standalone homes located on their own block of land. They are ideal for people seeking privacy, space and the freedom to customise their property.
- Provide complete privacy and independence.
- Often have larger yards for gardens, pools or outdoor entertaining.
- Offer flexibility to renovate or expand without needing approval from neighbours.
- Generally higher in cost due to land size and exclusivity.
- Require full responsibility for maintenance.
Townhouses
Townhouses are multi-level homes that share walls with neighbouring properties. They are a great choice for those who want a balance between spacious living and proximity to urban amenities.
- Compact design with multiple levels, maximising space.
- Often located in suburban or urban areas close to schools, shops and public transport.
- Can include private courtyards or small outdoor areas.
- Typically part of a strata scheme, which means shared maintenance responsibilities.
- May be a more affordable alternative to detached homes in the same location.
Terrace Houses
Terrace houses are rows of identical homes that share side walls, often located in vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods. These types of houses in Australia come with a mix of historic charm and urban convenience.
- Known for their character, often featuring heritage-style architecture.
- Can have compact layouts, perfect for smaller households.
- Positioned close to shops, cafes and cultural hubs.
- Limited outdoor space, often with small backyards or courtyards.
- Potential heritage restrictions may limit renovations.
Duplexes
A duplex is a building divided into two separate homes with individual entrances. They are an excellent option for families or investors seeking an affordable property with additional income potential.
- Allow for rental income from the second unit.
- Offer more privacy than apartments while still sharing land with another household.
- Ideal for multi-generational living or co-investment opportunities.
- Shared walls may limit privacy compared to detached homes.
- Shared responsibility for maintaining any communal areas.
Apartments
Apartments are self-contained units within larger buildings. They are perfect for those who want low-maintenance living and proximity to amenities.
- Provide access to shared facilities like gyms, pools and gardens.
- Typically located in urban areas, close to public transport and employment hubs.
- Offer a lock-and-leave lifestyle, ideal for busy professionals or frequent travellers.
- May come with strata fees to cover communal maintenance.
- Space is limited, and modifications are often restricted.
Bungalows
Bungalows are single-story homes with open layouts and charming verandas. They are ideal for those seeking accessible and cozy living spaces.
- Feature open floor plans, making them easy to navigate.
- Typically include verandas for outdoor relaxation.
- Easy to maintain due to their single-level design.
- May have limited space for larger families.
- Often require renovations to update older designs.
Villas
Villas are single-level homes, often part of a complex with shared amenities. They are a popular choice for retirees or those seeking low-maintenance living.
- Offer easy accessibility with a single-level design.
- Often part of a community with shared facilities like pools or gardens.
- Low maintenance, as external upkeep is typically handled by the strata.
- Provide less privacy compared to detached homes.
- Strata fees are an ongoing expense to consider.
When deciding on the right home among the house styles available to you, it’s crucial to assess your lifestyle, budget and long-term needs:
- Lifestyle Needs – Consider family size, work-from-home requirements and the need for outdoor space.
- Budget – Evaluate the purchase price, maintenance costs and potential rental income.
- Location – Think about proximity to work, schools, amenities and public transport.
- Future Plans – Account for family growth, resale potential and renovation opportunities.
Let NBHL Help You Find Your Dream Home in the Types of Houses on the Market
Choosing the right home from the types of houses available to you is about more than the building itself. It’s about finding a space that suits your way of life, supports your goals and fits your budget. By understanding the unique features of each housing type, you’ll be better equipped to make a decision that’s right for you.
Take your time to consider your options. If you’re still unsure, you can seek the professional advice of the home and mortgage experts here at North Brisbane Home Loans. Contact us if you need help finding that perfect home.

Patrick Cranshaw, a Certified Mortgage Professional for over 21 years, founded North Brisbane Home Loans in 2002. His career began with ANZ Bank in New Zealand, where he progressed over 16 years to a Business Banking role in Virginia. After moving to Brisbane in 2000, Patrick led the QLD market for a home loan agency, helped set up the REMAX Real Estate Finance division, and practiced as a broker.