An apartment is a self-contained housing unit that is part of a larger building. It is a type of residential property where multiple separate housing units are contained within one building or several buildings within a complex. In Australia, apartments are also commonly called "flats" or "units".
In Australia, we see various types of apartments:
- Studio apartments: These are single-room units that combine living, sleeping, and kitchen areas.
- One, two, or three-bedroom apartments: These have separate bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens.
- Loft apartments: These often feature high ceilings and open plan designs.
- Penthouse apartments: These are luxury units typically located on the top floors of apartment buildings.
- Duplex apartments: These are two-storey units within a larger apartment complex.
Apartments are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, especially in urban areas. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2016, 13.1% of Australian households lived in apartments, up from 11.7% in 2011. This trend is particularly noticeable in major cities like Brisbane, where apartment living is growing faster than traditional house occupancy.
Apartments have several key features that set them apart from other housing types:
- Shared walls: Apartments often share walls, ceilings, or floors with neighbouring units.
- Common areas: Many apartment buildings have shared facilities like gyms, pools, or gardens.
- Strata title: In Australia, most apartments are sold under strata title, which means owners have shared responsibility for common areas.
- Compact living: Apartments typically offer more efficient use of space compared to houses.
- Lower maintenance: Apartment living often involves less upkeep than owning a house.
Apartments serve several purposes in the Australian housing market:
- Affordable housing: Apartments often provide a more affordable entry point to desirable areas.
- Urban living: They allow more people to live close to city centres and amenities.
- Downsizing option: Apartments are popular among retirees looking to downsize.
- Investment opportunity: Many people buy apartments as investment properties to rent out.
What is the definition of apartment?
An apartment is a self-contained residential unit that occupies only part of a building, typically on a single storey. It is a housing unit designed for living that is part of a larger structure containing multiple such units. In Australia, the term "apartment" is often used interchangeably with "flat" or "unit".
The terminology for apartments can vary across Australia and globally:
- In Australia, we commonly use "apartment", "flat", and "unit". "Flat" is more prevalent in older buildings, while "apartment" is often associated with newer or more upscale properties.
- In the United States, "apartment" is the standard term, and "flat" is rarely used.
- In the United Kingdom, "flat" is more common, though "apartment" is gaining popularity, especially for higher-end properties.
- In New Zealand, both "flat" and "apartment" are used, with "flat" often referring to older or smaller units.
Despite these regional differences, the core concept of an apartment as a self-contained living space within a larger building remains consistent globally.
What are different types of apartment?
Apartments can be classified into various types based on their height and structure. Here are the main categories:
- Low-rise apartments: These are buildings with four storeys or fewer, often without lifts and common in suburban areas.
- Mid-rise apartments: These buildings are typically between five to twelve storeys high, usually equipped with lifts and found in urban areas.
- High-rise apartments: These are buildings more than twelve storeys tall, always with multiple lifts and often featuring extensive amenities.
Low-rise
Low-rise apartments are residential buildings with four storeys or fewer. These structures are typically found in suburban areas and smaller towns across Australia.
Main characteristics of low-rise apartments:
- Often lack lifts
- Have a more intimate, community-like atmosphere
- Usually feature walk-up access
- Tend to have fewer units per building
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), in 2016, about 38% of all occupied apartments in Australia were in low-rise buildings. This figure varies by location, with higher percentages in outer suburban and regional areas.
Main pros of living in low-rise apartments:
- Lower construction and maintenance costs, potentially leading to more affordable rent or purchase prices
- Often have a stronger connection to the street level and surrounding neighbourhood
- Typically quieter due to fewer neighbours
Main cons of living in low-rise apartments:
- Lack of lifts can be inconvenient, especially for older residents or those with mobility issues
- May have fewer amenities compared to larger apartment complexes
- Limited views compared to higher buildings
Mid-rise
Mid-rise apartments are buildings that typically range from five to twelve storeys in height. These structures are commonly found in urban areas and inner-city suburbs.
Main characteristics of mid-rise apartments:
- Usually equipped with lifts
- Often feature a mix of unit sizes and layouts
- May include some shared amenities like gyms or rooftop gardens
- Blend urban density with neighbourhood character
The Property Council of Australia reports that mid-rise apartments have been gaining popularity, particularly in middle-ring suburbs of major cities. In Brisbane, for example, mid-rise developments accounted for approximately 45% of new apartment approvals in 2020.
Main pros of living in mid-rise apartments:
- Good balance between urban living and community feel
- Often located in areas with good access to public transport and amenities
- May offer better views than low-rise buildings
- Usually more affordable than high-rise luxury apartments
Main cons of living in mid-rise apartments:
- Can still experience some noise from neighbours
- May have less privacy compared to low-rise buildings
- Shared facilities might become crowded during peak times
High-rise
High-rise apartments are buildings that exceed twelve storeys in height. These towering structures are predominantly found in city centres and dense urban areas.
Main characteristics of high-rise apartments:
- Always equipped with multiple lifts
- Often feature extensive amenities like gyms, pools, and concierge services
- Provide high-density living in urban centres
- Usually offer impressive city or water views from upper floors
The ABS reported that in 2016, about 38% of occupied apartments in Australia were in high-rise buildings. This percentage is significantly higher in central business districts of major cities.
Main pros of living in high-rise apartments:
- Often offer stunning views
- Usually located in prime locations with excellent access to city amenities
- Typically feature a wide range of on-site facilities
- Can provide a sense of security with controlled access
Main cons of living in high-rise apartments:
- Can be more expensive to buy or rent
- May feel less connected to the street-level community
- Potential for longer lift wait times during peak hours
- Some people may feel uncomfortable living at great heights
What are the main features and characteristics of apartments?
Features and characteristics in the context of apartments refer to the distinct elements and qualities that define apartment living. These are the aspects that set apartments apart from other types of residential properties.
The main features and characteristics of apartments include:
- Shared structure: Apartments are part of a larger building, sharing walls, ceilings, or floors with neighbouring units.
- Self-contained living space: Each apartment is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.
- Communal areas: Many apartment buildings have shared facilities like lobbies, lifts, gardens, or parking areas.
- Strata title: In Australia, most apartments are sold under strata title, which means owners have shared responsibility for common areas.
- Compact design: Apartments typically offer more efficient use of space compared to detached houses.
- Vertical living: Apartments are often stacked vertically, allowing for higher population density in urban areas.
- Professional management: Many apartment buildings have on-site managers or management companies overseeing maintenance and operations.
- Security features: Apartments often have controlled access systems, intercoms, or security personnel for added safety.
What are the pros of living in an apartment?
Living in an apartment offers several advantages compared to other types of housing. Here's a list of the main benefits:
- Lower maintenance: Apartment living typically involves less upkeep as exterior maintenance and repairs are often handled by the building management.
- Cost-effective: Apartments are often more affordable to buy or rent than houses, especially in desirable urban areas.
- Amenities: Many apartment complexes offer shared facilities like gyms, pools, or barbecue areas that might be too costly for individual homeowners.
- Security: Apartments often have better security features, such as controlled access and sometimes on-site security personnel.
- Location: Apartments are frequently located in urban areas, offering easy access to work, entertainment, and public transport.
- Energy efficiency: Due to their compact nature and shared walls, apartments can be more energy-efficient and cheaper to heat or cool.
- Community living: Apartment buildings can foster a sense of community among residents, offering opportunities for social interaction.
- Flexibility: Renting an apartment often offers more flexibility for people who might need to relocate for work or other reasons.
Do apartments hold their value?
Yes, apartments generally hold their value well in Australia, particularly in major cities like Brisbane. In the context of real estate, value is typically measured by the property's market price over time, often expressed as capital growth or appreciation.
According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and CoreLogic, apartments have shown strong value retention and growth over the past 10-15 years:
- From 2011 to 2021, the median unit price in Brisbane increased by approximately 25%, from $360,000 to $450,000.
- In the broader Australian context, CoreLogic reports that unit values in capital cities have grown by about 46% over the past 15 years (2006-2021).
- The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data shows that Brisbane's unit market has experienced an average annual growth rate of 2.5% over the past decade.
These figures demonstrate that apartments have generally maintained and increased their value over time. However, it's important to note that value retention can vary based on factors such as location, building quality, and local market conditions.
What are the cons of living in an apartment?
While apartment living offers many benefits, it also comes with some drawbacks. Here's a list of potential cons:
- Limited space: Apartments are typically smaller than houses, which can mean less living and storage space.
- Lack of privacy: Shared walls and close proximity to neighbours can result in less privacy and potential noise issues.
- Restrictions: Body corporate rules may limit what you can do with your property, such as renovations or pet ownership.
- Strata fees: Ongoing strata fees for maintenance and shared facilities can add to the cost of living.
- Limited outdoor areas: Most apartments have small balconies or no private outdoor space at all.
- Parking challenges: Some apartments have limited or no parking, which can be inconvenient in areas with scarce street parking.
- Less control: Decisions about building maintenance and improvements are often made collectively, which may not always align with individual preferences.
- Potential for difficult neighbours: Living in close quarters means you're more affected by the behaviour of those around you.
- Lift dependence: In high-rise buildings, reliance on lifts can be inconvenient during breakdowns or maintenance.
- Limited scope for expansion: Unlike houses, apartments generally can't be extended to accommodate growing needs.
Who should live in an apartment?
Apartments in Australia are well-suited for several demographic groups:
- Young professionals: Singles or couples starting their careers often choose apartments for their affordability and proximity to urban job centres.
- Downsizers: Older adults or retirees looking to reduce maintenance responsibilities and live closer to amenities.
- Students: Apartments near universities offer convenient and often more affordable housing options.
- First-time homebuyers: Apartments can be a more attainable first step onto the property ladder.
- Investors: Apartments in high-demand areas can provide steady rental income and potential capital growth.
The main economic advantages for these groups include lower entry costs compared to houses, reduced maintenance expenses, and often lower utility bills due to smaller spaces. Additionally, apartments in well-located areas can offer savings on transport costs.
The closest alternative to apartment living is townhouse living. Townhouses offer a middle ground between apartments and detached houses, providing more space and often a small private outdoor area, while still being more affordable than standalone homes.
What is the best place in Australia to live in an apartment?
While the "best" place is subjective and depends on individual preferences, many consider Sydney to be the top location for apartment living in Australia. Here are the main reasons why:
- Job opportunities: Sydney is Australia's largest city and economic hub, offering a wide range of employment options across various industries.
- Lifestyle amenities: The city boasts world-class restaurants, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues, many within walking distance of apartment complexes.
- Public transport: Sydney has an extensive public transport network, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Natural beauty: Many apartments offer stunning views of Sydney Harbour, beaches, or parklands.
- Property value: Sydney apartments have shown strong long-term capital growth potential.
- Cultural diversity: The city's multicultural population creates a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
- Education: Sydney is home to several top-ranked universities, making it attractive for students and academics.
However, it's worth noting that other Australian cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth also offer excellent apartment living options, each with their unique advantages. In Brisbane, for example, we're seeing a growing trend towards high-quality apartment living, with developments that offer a perfect blend of urban convenience and laid-back Queensland lifestyle.
Is Brisbane a good location to live in an apartment?
Yes, Brisbane is an excellent location to live in an apartment. The Queensland capital offers a compelling blend of urban convenience, subtropical climate, and a relaxed lifestyle that makes it ideal for apartment living.
The main reasons why Brisbane is a great choice for apartment dwellers include:
- Growing urban amenities: Brisbane's CBD and inner-city suburbs are experiencing rapid development, bringing world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment options within easy reach of apartment residents.
- Favourable climate: Brisbane's year-round warm weather makes apartment living with balconies or rooftop spaces particularly appealing.
- Affordable living: Compared to Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane offers more affordable apartment options without compromising on quality of life.
- Infrastructure development: Ongoing projects like the Cross River Rail are improving connectivity, making apartment living in Brisbane even more convenient.
- Beautiful outdoor spaces: Brisbane's abundant parks and the Brisbane River provide ample opportunity for outdoor recreation, complementing the compact nature of apartment living.
How popular are apartments in Brisbane?
Apartments are increasingly popular in Brisbane, with a significant portion of the city's residents opting for this style of living. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), as of 2021, approximately 22% of occupied private dwellings in Greater Brisbane were apartments.
The popularity of apartments in Brisbane has seen substantial growth over the years:
- In 2011, apartments made up about 18% of occupied private dwellings in Greater Brisbane.
- By 2016, this had increased to 20%.
- The latest 2021 census data shows a further increase to 22%.
This trend indicates a steady rise in apartment living, with a growth of about 4 percentage points over a decade.
Looking to the future, forecasts suggest this trend will continue. The Queensland Government's ShapingSEQ regional plan projects that 40% of new dwellings in Brisbane between 2016 and 2041 will need to be apartments or townhouses to meet population growth and changing demographic needs. Furthermore, a report by JLL Research predicts that by 2030, up to 30% of Brisbane's housing stock could be apartments, driven by factors such as population growth, changing lifestyle preferences, and urban consolidation policies.
Who builds apartments in Brisbane?
Apartments in Brisbane are built by licensed building contractors and construction companies that specialise in multi-residential projects. These builders must hold specific qualifications and meet stringent requirements to undertake apartment construction in the city.
To build apartments in Brisbane, a builder must:
- Hold a Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licence in the appropriate class, typically a Builder - Open licence for larger projects.
- Have proven experience in multi-residential construction, often demonstrated through a portfolio of completed projects.
- Maintain appropriate insurances, including public liability and construction insurance.
- Employ or contract qualified professionals such as architects, engineers, and project managers.
- Demonstrate financial stability and the capacity to manage large-scale projects.
- Comply with all relevant building codes, standards, and local regulations.
What are the legal requirements to build apartments in Brisbane?
Legal requirements in the context of building apartments refer to the mandatory regulations, permits, and compliances set by various governmental bodies that must be adhered to throughout the construction process.
In Brisbane, the legal requirements to build apartments are comprehensive and multi-faceted. Builders must obtain development approval from the Brisbane City Council, which involves submitting detailed plans that comply with the City Plan and relevant building codes. This includes adherence to zoning laws, height restrictions, and density requirements. Environmental impact assessments may also be necessary, particularly for larger developments. Builders must ensure compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and Queensland Development Code, which set standards for structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. Additionally, all construction work must be carried out by appropriately licensed tradespeople, and the builder must maintain proper WorkCover insurance for all workers on site. Throughout the construction process, regular inspections are required to ensure compliance with approved plans and building standards. Upon completion, a final inspection and certification are necessary before the apartments can be occupied. These requirements are in place to ensure the safety, quality, and sustainability of apartment buildings in Brisbane.
Why choose Livit Constructions to build apartments in Brisbane?
Livit Constructions is a reputable construction company based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, our company has established itself as a leader in building high-quality apartments and other residential properties in the Brisbane area.
Our specialisation extends beyond apartment construction to include a range of housing types, from townhouses to custom-built homes. This diverse experience allows us to bring a wealth of knowledge and innovative solutions to every apartment project we undertake.
At Livit Constructions, we are committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. We incorporate energy-efficient designs, use sustainable materials where possible, and implement waste reduction strategies on all our construction sites. This commitment not only benefits the environment but also results in long-term cost savings for our clients.
Our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is reflected in our high customer satisfaction rate. Based on our internal surveys, 95% of our clients report being "very satisfied" or "extremely satisfied" with our services. This quantitative data underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional results and maintaining strong relationships with our clients.
How much does it cost to build an apartment in Australia?
The average cost to build an apartment in Australia varies significantly depending on several factors, but as a general estimate, it ranges from $2,000 to $3,500 per square metre for a standard apartment building.
Factors influencing the cost include:
- Location: Land prices and local labour costs vary across different areas.
- Building height: High-rise apartments typically cost more per square metre than low-rise buildings.
- Quality of finishes: Higher-end materials and fixtures increase costs.
- Site conditions: Challenging terrains or soil types can increase construction costs.
- Design complexity: Unique or complex designs often come with higher price tags.
- Scale of the project: Larger developments may benefit from economies of scale.
The cost of building apartments can change significantly across different Australian cities:
- Sydney: Generally the most expensive, with costs often exceeding $3,500 per square metre.
- Melbourne: Slightly less expensive than Sydney, with costs ranging from $2,500 to $3,500 per square metre.
- Brisbane: More affordable than Sydney and Melbourne, with costs typically between $2,000 and $3,000 per square metre.
- Perth and Adelaide: Often less expensive than the eastern capital cities, with costs generally ranging from $1,800 to $2,800 per square metre.
How long does it usually take to build an apartment in Australia?
The time required to build an apartment in Australia typically ranges from 12 to 36 months, depending on various factors.
Influential factors include:
- Size and complexity of the project
- Height of the building
- Site conditions and location
- Planning and approval processes
- Weather conditions during construction
- Availability of materials and labour
Timing according to apartment types:
- Low-rise apartments (up to 4 storeys): Usually take 12 to 18 months
- Mid-rise apartments (5 to 12 storeys): Typically require 18 to 24 months
- High-rise apartments (above 12 storeys): Can take 24 to 36 months or more
How do apartments compare with other house types?
Apartments differ significantly from the most popular house type in Australia, which is the detached single-family home, often referred to as a "house" or "freestanding house". Here are the main differences in the context of living:
- Space: Apartments typically offer less living space and rarely have private yards, unlike houses which often come with both front and back gardens.
- Maintenance: Apartment living usually involves less maintenance as common areas are managed by the body corporate, whereas house owners are responsible for all aspects of property upkeep.
- Privacy: Houses generally offer more privacy as they don't share walls with neighbours, unlike most apartments.
- Location: Apartments are often located in urban areas closer to amenities, while houses are more common in suburban locations.
- Costs: Apartments are often more affordable to purchase and can have lower utility costs due to their smaller size.
- Lifestyle: Apartment living often suits a more lock-and-leave lifestyle, while houses cater to those who prefer more space and independence.
Main advantages of apartment living:
- Lower entry cost into the property market
- Often situated in prime locations with easy access to amenities
- Lower maintenance requirements
- Potential access to shared facilities like gyms or pools
- Enhanced security features in many complexes
- More environmentally friendly due to shared resources and smaller footprint
- Can offer a sense of community within the building
What is the difference between an apartment and a house?
The main difference between an apartment and a house is in their structure and ownership model. An apartment is a single unit within a larger building that contains multiple similar units, often stacked vertically. A house, on the other hand, is a freestanding structure, typically on its own land parcel, not sharing walls with other dwellings.
Key differences include:
- Space: Houses generally offer more living space and often include a private yard, while apartments are usually more compact.
- Ownership: House owners typically own both the building and the land, while apartment owners usually own their unit and share ownership of common areas.
- Maintenance: House owners are responsible for all maintenance, while apartment owners share responsibility for common areas through body corporate fees.
- Privacy: Houses offer more privacy as they don't share walls with neighbours, unlike most apartments.
- Location: Apartments are more common in urban areas, while houses are more prevalent in suburban locations.
What is the difference between an apartment and a townhouse?
The main difference between an apartment and a townhouse in Australia lies in their structure and layout. An apartment is typically a single-level unit within a larger multi-story building, while a townhouse is usually a multi-level home that shares one or more walls with adjacent units.
Key differences include:
- Layout: Apartments are usually single-level, while townhouses are multi-story.
- Outdoor space: Townhouses often include small private outdoor areas, while apartments typically have balconies or shared outdoor spaces.
- Shared walls: Townhouses usually share side walls with neighbours, while apartments may share walls, floors, and ceilings.
- Ownership: Both can be owned outright, but townhouses often come with some land ownership, unlike most apartments.
- Style: Townhouses often resemble traditional houses in appearance, while apartments are part of larger, often more modern-looking structures.
What is the difference between an apartment and a bungalow house?
The main difference between an apartment and a bungalow house is in their structure, size, and setting. An apartment is a single unit within a larger building containing multiple dwellings, while a bungalow is a small, single-story, detached house.
Key differences include:
- Structure: Apartments are part of larger buildings, while bungalows are standalone structures.
- Size: Bungalows are typically larger than apartments, offering more living space.
- Land: Bungalows usually come with their own land parcel, while apartments don't.
- Layout: Bungalows are single-story by definition, while apartments can be on any floor of a multi-story building.
- Location: Bungalows are more common in suburban or rural areas, while apartments are typically found in urban settings.
- Outdoor space: Bungalows often have private gardens, while apartments usually have balconies or shared outdoor areas.
What are the different types of Houses in Australia?
In Australia, there are several popular types of houses, each catering to different lifestyle needs and preferences. The five most popular types, starting with the one closest in concept to apartments, are:
Townhouses are multi-level attached homes that share one or more walls with neighbouring units, offering a middle ground between apartments and detached houses. Next are detached houses, also known as single-family homes, which are freestanding structures on their own land parcels and represent the most common housing type in Australia. Duplexes, which are single structures divided into two separate living units, often side-by-side, offer another option for those seeking a balance between privacy and affordability. Bungalows, single-story detached houses popular for their accessibility and often spacious designs, are favoured by many Australians, particularly retirees and young families. Lastly, terrace houses, typical in inner-city areas, are multi-level homes sharing side walls with neighbouring properties, often featuring distinctive period architecture.
