How to Know if Your Land is Suitable for Dual Occupancy

A dual occupancy development involves fitting 2 dwellings onto a single block. The property can then be subdivided to onsell or rent out. Different configuration options can be to either build a new home behind an existing one or knock down the existing home to build 2 brand new ones. For a homeowner, it enables them to capitalize on underutilized land to provide a rental property or resell for profit. Below are 3 configuration arrangements for dual occupancy designs: One Behind the Other Also known as ‘infill developments’, this is the most common configuration as it requires the least amount of land & in some cases, may allow the front home to be retained. With corner sites, the layout allows for both homes to have their own street frontage & maximizes land usage. If your site allows you to retain the existing dwelling, putting an additional dwelling to the rear is one of the most cost-effective project types. For this configuration check: • Block size exceeds 650m2 • 350m2 to the rear & side of the existing house • Minimum 3m between the existing house and boundary line • No significant trees in the backyard. Contact your local council for tree removal permits & advice. Side by Side Commonly referred to as ‘duplexes’, this development type involves demolishing the existing home & rebuilding 2 brand new ones. Both homes are able to face the street & share a common wall or ‘partially. This type is suited to wider sites & minimizes the required driveway area, in turn maximizing buildable area. It’s only permitted in certain ‘neighbourhood character areas within specific Council residential zones. For this configuration check: • Block exceeds 650m2 • Frontage is greater than 20m • No power poles, bus stops, street trees, telecom/stormwater or electricity pits within 3.5m of ends of frontage • There are similar types of developments within the street or adjoining block One on Top of Another Involves stacking one or more homes above another in an apartment-style configuration. This type is the most uncommon & only permitted in very few areas, mostly within residential growth zones or sites close to activity centres. Typically, car parking is situated in a basement & ground apartments have balconies instead of outdoor yard spaces. The most expensive project type due to fire separation between floors and the potential need for basement parking For this configuration check: • Site falls within correct zoning • There are similar types of developments/character within the street or adjoining block • A more detailed site investigation into context, zoning & council development policies required Dual occupancy projects can be financially rewarding when done right & with the right team supporting you. Make sure that your plans are realistic & achievable as not all development types are possible on every site. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, it’s always best to do plenty of research & get the right professional advice before committing to your property investment project.

===== If you’re looking for the perfect high-yield investment, then a duplex might be your choice. It will help you grow your income and generate positive cash flow from day one. Invest in duplex property now with Dual Keys Sydney! Source: hxdesign