What is medium-density housing?
Medium-density housing typically includes townhouses, duplexes, units and other types of multi-unit dwellings. Typically, medium-density areas are found between low and high-density ones, often providing housing on the fringes of larger cities.
Property developers are usually very active when new land is zoned for medium-density housing. It’s usually quite cost-effective to build multi-unit dwellings, making it an appealing option. However, that relies on working with an experienced builder for medium-density homes. Essentially, medium-density housing aims to maximise the use of available land in a specific residential area.
What is a medium-density residential zone?
A medium-density residential zone refers to a section of land that has been approved for residential developments. While all councils are different, the standard is roughly 8-15 dwellings per hectare of land. For this reason, you’ll typically find buildings like townhouses, duplexes, triplex and smaller apartment buildings over three stories.
By creating medium-density residential zones, councils can ensure a better use of space. These types of homes are popular with buyers and investors, too, because they represent great profitability when built well.
There are other residential housing zones, including single-density, where there is just one home on a plot of land. In high-density residential zones, you’ll find bigger apartment buildings that often incorporate other features like retail stores and undercover parking.
What are the types of medium-density housing?
Medium-density homes come in all shapes and sizes, and most councils have some restrictions on what can be built. There may be building height limits or even restrictions on the number of dwellings per hectare. Here are some of the main types of medium-density housing you might build in Australia.
- Detached homes
- Semi-detached homes
- Townhouses
- Low to medium-sized apartment buildings
- Duplexes
- Row housing (including duplex and triplex homes)
While we’ve mentioned detached homes, most forms of medium-density housing are multi-unit development. It’s more cost-effective for developers and usually makes better use of space to create multi-unit dwellings on single lots.
Things to consider when designing medium-density residential developments
Like any type of property development, you need to have a good understanding of medium-density housing before jumping right in. To avoid some of the risks, here are some things to consider for medium-density residential development.
Landscaping
The great thing about multi-unit dwellings is they generally don’t require a lot of gardening. When building, don’t forget about the landscaping costs, though. Because even a small outside space comes with costs, it’s important to budget accordingly. Also, try to use landscaping that appeals to your target market.
Signage
Think about all of the signage that might be required for a multi-unit dwelling. Generally, when residential space is shared, it’s a good idea to have clear signage for parking, bins and other owner responsibilities. Obviously, these shouldn’t ruin the aesthetic of the area.
Lighting
Depending on the scope of your development, you may need to consider lighting such as street lights and other guidelights for pedestrians and vehicles in the area. For individual homes, lighting should be efficient and adhere to light pollution standards.
Lot size
Carefully consider the lot size and what you can comfortably fit on there. If you want to develop three townhouses on one block of land, for example, you’ll need ample space to accommodate the dwellings.
Building placement
Some councils have ‘build to’ lines at the front of properties because they want to maintain nicely presented streets. For developers, this isn’t usually a concern because building as close to the footpath as possible allows more space for other units. Always check if there are building placement guidelines within your council.
Roadways
Before determining if a proposed plot of land is a good deal, consider the roadways in the area. Is it easy to get in and out of the new suburb? Are there roadways linking the area to larger cities? Even think about public transport in the area. Buyers don’t like being isolated, so good roads in the area are essential.
This is equally important for property development builders because if access is difficult, you may find construction costs increase overall.
Access and parking
Naturally, residents usually want ample space to park vehicles. Because a lot of medium-density housing consists of apartments, townhouses, and row housing, garages aren’t usually in the picture. So, when building, ensure there are parking solutions. Whether it’s on the street outside a triplex or a shared driveway, keep this firmly in your plans, or you’ll limit your market to those without cars.
The benefits of medium-density homes
Medium-density homes have great benefits for communities, as they often improve local economies and provide more customers for local businesses. But why is medium-density housing so popular for property developers? Let’s take a look at some of the benefits.
- Cost-effective to build
- Lower prices appeal to more homebuyers
- Their popularity with buyers means fast sales
- Maximise land use
- Higher profits
There is no doubt that building multiple dwellings on one plot of land represents great profit potential when selling, which is a key reason experienced property developers like medium-density residential zones.
The disadvantages of medium density-homes
Of course, medium-density housing has some drawbacks. While these zones are usually on the edges of cities, it does usually mean a commute for residents. The closer to the city you go, the more likely it is to be a high-density zone. Also, multi-dwelling houses are usually smaller, so this won’t appeal to those who dream of a big house and backyard. Of course, there are just as many people who specifically want low-maintenance housing.
Overall, though, medium-density residential developments always provide a good chance for developers to profit, whether immediately or over the long term.
Are you developing medium-density housing?
Groove Properties is the first-choice builder for experienced property developers who need reliable, experienced professionals. As a luxury townhouse builder and property developer, Groove provides expert services at every step of the way. Our project management approach ensures your medium-density residential development comes in on time and within budget. Whether you’re building in Coorparoo, Camp Hill or anywhere in the Brisbane region, contact your preferred medium density housing builder today.
