Different Types of Houses in India

The different types of houses available in India that you can consider include:

1. Apartments or Flats

The meaning of flats and an apartment is the same, with the term ‘flat’ originating from British English and ‘apartment’ coming from American English. Apartments are increasingly popular types of homes that people are investing in. They are generally a part of a single or multiple residential buildings.

These days, most apartments are a part of gated communities or townships. They generally have an owner or management company that is responsible for the upkeep of common areas as well as for infrastructural repairs of individual units. Typically, it is more affordable to rent or purchase an apartment as compared to purchasing land to build a house. If you choose to purchase an apartment at a real estate project by a reputed developer, you get several advantages, like easy access to facilities like a clubhouse, gym, swimming pool, parks, etc. Additionally, apartments also foster a sense of community.

2. Studio Apartments

Studio apartments exemplify the meaning of efficient living spaces, as their configuration consists of a large room that serves as a combined bedroom, living space, and dining area. These types of homes are very affordable and easy to manage and are a practical choice for young professionals or students who have a limited budget. These are compact units that very effectively use space, which means that utility costs for these apartments are also low. People who purchase studio apartments generally do so with the intention of renting them out. With Chennai’s urbanisation and industrial development, the demand for affordable rental properties is high, which makes purchasing studio apartments as rental properties a good idea.

3. Duplex Houses

You get the best of both worlds when you purchase a duplex house, meaning that you can enjoy the privacy that is generally associated with independent houses and the sense of community that comes with apartment living. Duplex houses are residential properties that include two attached living units, either placed next to each other or one atop the other. Each living unit consists of two floors that are connected by stairs, which is how it gets its name as well. Typically, these types of homes in India feature a floor plan with a hall, kitchen, and one bedroom making the lower floor, and one or two bedrooms on the floor above.

4. Villas

All villas are specific types of houses but not every house can be called a villa, meaning that there are stark differences between villas and an independent house that one may have built. Villas are generally associated with luxurious lifestyles. These types of homes are often more secluded and single-level dwellings built on spacious property, where one can expect conveniences and comforts that may not be found in ordinary houses.

5. Bungalow

While ‘bungalow’ can be used by realtors to describe many different types of houses, the term actually refers to a specific style of residence. Bungalows are generally single-storied or have one and a half stories, attached with porches that are covered by roof overhangs. A bungalow offers residents a lot of privacy and tranquillity and has more than enough space to include parking areas, lawns and gardens, and much more, surrounding the dwelling.

6. Farmhouses

Located away from the hustle and bustle of cities, towards the outskirts, farmhouses generally include small dwellings that are nestled amidst expansive landscaped gardens or farmland. These types of houses are generally utilised as holiday homes where people can get away from everyday life. Depending on the land available and the personal preferences of the owners, farmhouses can be single-story or double-story dwellings. Generally, on the higher side in terms of costs, farmhouses also have a high appreciation value.

7. Condominiums

A Condominium or condo for short, refers to a large building complex that consists of multiple residential units. Each unit in the complex is owned by separate individuals. Condo owners own their unit's space, while the ownership of common areas, like a swimming pool, garage, and parking, is shared with other condo owners. Condo owners have complete control over their living space and can make changes to the floor plan or architecture based on their preferences.

8. Cottages

Cottages are small single-story houses that are typically located amidst natural surroundings, such as hillsides, forests, or coastal areas. These types of houses feature sloping roofs, cosy interiors, and inviting verandas or porches, where residents can relax and soak in the tranquillity and beauty of their surroundings. Cottages are ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of cities.

9. Penthouses

Technically a type of apartment, penthouses symbolise luxury and exclusivity in urban real estate. Perched atop high-rise buildings, penthouses offer an unparalleled view of the city skyline or scenic surroundings. These lavish residential spaces consist of multiple floors and prioritise open-concept living, with spacious areas that seamlessly blend into the kitchen, dining space, and entertainment areas. One of the most amazing features of penthouses is the private outdoor space, which may also include a terrace, rooftop garden, or pool.

10. Eco-Friendly Houses

More than the architecture, floor plan, or design of the house, it is the concept on which these types of homes are based that differentiates them from other types of residences. An eco-friendly house is designed to reduce energy consumption, conserve natural resources, minimise waste, and reduce one’s carbon footprint. These houses represent a commitment towards minimising environmental impact and promoting a healthy and comfortable lifestyle. In India, eco-friendly homes are becoming increasingly popular as their benefits are becoming more and more apparent. Whether you are looking for land for sale in Minjur, Madhavaram, Manali, or any other locality in Chennai, you should consider building an eco-friendly home in a bid to safeguard the future for yourself and your loved ones.

The many types of houses or land that you can consider purchasing in India are not limited to the aforementioned types. As long as you put in due research and make an informed decision, you will be able to find residential real estate that perfectly suits your needs.