What is a Dual Key Home? | New Choice Homes

A dual key home is a type of property design that offers two separate living spaces within a single title. This concept is particularly appealing in today's housing market, providing flexibility, privacy, and potential income streams for homeowners. 

  • Published: 07/10/2024
  • Company: homeshelf

In the ever-evolving Australian housing market, dual key homes are emerging as a smart, flexible, and cost-effective option for a wide range of homeowners. 

A dual key home is a type of property design that offers two separate living spaces within a single title. This concept is particularly appealing in today’s housing market, providing flexibility, privacy, and potential income streams for homeowners. 

Essentially, a dual key home consists of a primary dwelling and a secondary self-contained unit, which share a common entrance but have separate living areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

New Choice Homes, reputable Western Australian home builder, offers a range of innovative and high-quality dual key home designs. Specialising in creating homes that cater to the diverse needs of modern families, New Choice Homes ensures that every build is tailored to the local market and lifestyle preferences, making them a top choice for buyers in Western Australia. 



The Elwood by New Choice Homes

Key Features of Dual Key Homes

Separate Living Spaces

Dual key home designs are unique, which allows for two entirely distinct living quarters under one roof. Each unit has its own kitchen, bathroom, and living areas, providing complete independence and privacy. 

This setup is perfect for multigenerational families who wish to live together while maintaining their own space. It’s also an appealing choice for families with adult children, or those who want to make a little rental income on the side.  

Shared Entrance

While dual key homes offer separate living areas, they typically share a common entrance, such as a foyer or hallway. This feature distinguishes them from fully detached granny flats or multi-unit dwellings, making them a unique and efficient use of space.

Flexibility in Use

Dual key homes are incredibly versatile, catering to various needs. They can be used as a primary residence with a rental unit, a home for extended family, or even as a space for a home office or business. The flexibility of use makes dual key homes an attractive option for many homeowners.

Single Title, Dual Occupancy

Unlike duplexes or multi-unit properties, dual key homes are sold under a single title. This means that while there are two distinct living spaces, the property is not subdivided. This single title ownership can simplify the buying process and reduce associated costs, such as rates and insurance. 

New Choice Homes streamlines this process, offering single-title dual key properties that are not only practical but also add significant value to the investment.


Benefits of Dual Key Homes


The Osborne by New Choice Homes

1. Ideal for Multigenerational Living
Dual key homes by New Choice Homes are particularly well-suited to multigenerational living, where different generations of a family share a property. 

This setup allows older parents, adult children, or other relatives to live close by while maintaining their independence and privacy. It also fosters stronger family bonds and provides peace of mind, knowing that loved ones are nearby. 

Their designs, such as the Osborne and Elwood, perfectly accommodate this growing trend.

2. Potential for Rental Income
One of the significant advantages of a dual key home is the potential to generate rental income. Homeowners can rent out the secondary unit to tenants, students, or holidaymakers, providing a steady income stream. 

This can be particularly beneficial in offsetting mortgage payments or covering other expenses.

3. Increased Property Value
Dual key homes often have higher resale value due to their versatility and potential for rental income. The ability to cater to multiple living arrangements makes these properties appealing to a broader range of buyers, increasing demand and potentially boosting property value.

New Choice Homes has recognised this and ensures that each home design maximises the property’s value potential.

4. Cost-Effective
Building or purchasing a dual key home can be more cost-effective than buying two separate properties. Since both units share the same land and infrastructure, the overall costs, including land acquisition, construction, and utilities, are lower. 

Additionally, the single title ownership can reduce ongoing expenses such as council rates and insurance.

Practical Considerations

The Osborne by New Choice Homes

1. Design and Layout

When considering a dual key home, it’s essential to think about the design and layout to ensure that both living spaces are functional and comfortable. 

Considerations include the size and number of bedrooms, the layout of the kitchen and living areas, and the positioning of the entrance to maintain privacy.

2. Legal and Zoning Regulations

Before embarking on a dual key home project, it’s crucial to check local zoning regulations and building codes. Some areas may have specific requirements regarding dual occupancy properties, such as minimum lot sizes, setback requirements, and parking provisions. 

Consulting with a builder experienced in dual key homes, like New Choice Homes, can help navigate these regulations and ensure compliance.

3. Financing and Tax Implications

Financing a dual key home can differ from traditional properties, especially if the intention is to rent out one of the units. It’s important to explore different mortgage options and understand the tax implications, including potential benefits like negative gearing or depreciation claims on the rental unit. Consulting with a financial advisor or tax professional can provide clarity on these aspects.

New Choice Homes works closely with financial advisors to help buyers understand the tax implications and financing options, making the process straightforward for both homeowners and investors.

Innovative Dual Key Home Designs


The Serene by New Choice Homes

New Choice Homes is a leader in designing and building high-quality dual key homes in Western Australia. Their innovative designs cater to the growing demand for flexible living arrangements, offering stylish and practical solutions for modern families.

One standout design is the The Serene, which features a spacious primary residence alongside an attached secondary unit. The main dwelling includes three bedrooms, a large open-plan living area, and a contemporary kitchen, while the secondary unit is equipped with two bedrooms and all the essentials for comfortable living. This design perfectly balances shared living with privacy, making it an ideal choice for those looking to invest in a dual key property.

Why Choose New Choice Homes?

New Choice Homes is a leader in the Western Australian housing market, particularly for those interested in dual key homes. With innovative designs like the The Serene, which offers a spacious primary residence and a self-contained secondary unit, they provide a solution that combines comfort, style, and functionality. 

Their homes are crafted to meet the needs of modern families, offering flexible living arrangements without sacrificing design or quality.

Dual key homes represent a smart and flexible approach to modern living, offering numerous benefits such as multigenerational living options, potential rental income, and increased property value. 

New Choice Homes provides expertly designed dual key homes tailored to meet the needs of Western Australian homeowners. 

Publisher Website: www.homeshelf.com.au