1.

Bungalow

Bungalow came from the word “Bangla” or (Bangala) a small, economical single-story hut or
house built by the laborers of India for the English Officers during the British colonial years of
India. The word “Bangla” means “belonging to Bengal.”

The Bungalows were made low to the ground with broad, protected porches to shade the English
Officers from the hot sun of Bengal, India.

This type of house and lots became popular during the early 1900s. It became a dominant
architectural style in America after it has been adapted from England. Thanks to the influence of
the American Arts and Crafts movement, the bungalow’s popularity became a hit for three
decades because of its simplistic aesthetic and architectural design.

According to the website masterclass.com article Guide to Bungalow: 5 Styles of Bungalow

Houses, bungalow gave average people in America affordable houses and lots to live in that were
stylish, convenient, and well built. Having a bungalow house was the achievement of the
American dream.
What is a bungalow?

This type of house is a small cottage-type homemade low to the ground with broad, protected
porches. Bungalows have sloped roofs, open floor plans, and large and broad front porches. It
can be one- to- two-story style.

What makes Bungalow special?

Since bungalow’s made the American Dream house come true, this home was designed with
specific characteristics:

• Floor plans – Bungalows are usually square in size and have minimal storage space. Its
floor plans are usually open, and bedrooms are located on the ground floor, with the
living room located at the center of the floor layout.
• Large front porch – Bungalows have verandas that are covered by a steeply -pitched roof.

Small size – Since the beginning of the construction of the Hindi laborers, bungalows are created
in small sizes and are usually single-story houses.

• But it does not restrict to having a second story with its distinct sloping roof.
• Balance Proportions – Bungalows have wide single or double-hung windows that are
noticeable in the house. Bungalows are typically unenclosed with thick pillars that are
squared, this feature mostly shows symmetry proportion and balance throughout the
house.

Living in a bungalow is a bit cozy and it has many benefits too. Here are some of them.

What are the benefits of living in a bungalow?

• Easy to maintain – Because the house is dainty, it is easier to clean. Bungalows have
roofs lower to the ground; it is accessible to clean gutters and do the architectural
improvement.
• Suitable for mobility – Since most of the bungalows are single-story, they do not have
stairs. The stairless design is beneficial for homeowners with limited mobility. It is also
best for the couple with younger children.
• It is Private – Bungalows are built in the suburban community. Many bungalow owners
placed shrubs around the property to enhance privacy.
• spaces.

Benefits

As most bungalows are single-story, it allows good mobility, perfect for those who might find it
challenging to go up and down the stairs. Since it’s also relatively small, the interior is easier to
maintain and take care of
If living in such a space is lucky, there are also downsides to living in a bungalow.

What are the issues in living in a bungalow?

• Room separation – Since the bungalow’s architectural design is an open floor plan,
creating separation between the living spaces and the bedrooms can be a bit of a
challenge. Also, noise can be challenging to control since sound travels quickly
throughout this type of housing – low roof and tapered interior walls.
• Security – Bungalows are designed to have many windows, but this can be a security
issue because windows can be easily accessible especially when the homeowners leave
their windows open for ventilation.
• Size – Bungalows are perfect for couples who are just starting a family, but what if you
plan to extend your family, that means you may need more rooms and larger living.

Downsides
If you want more space to move around or are moving in with a big family, the limited
space in a bungalow house could be a problem. Also, related to the limited space, it
would take more effort to create or go through a floor plan that fits all the rooms and
furniture inside your home.

2. Single-attached two-story
Single-attached two-story housing, shares walls on both sides with another home. Duplex is a
sample of a single-attached two-story home.

Benefits of living in a single attached home.

Benefits
As the house is situated on one side of the lot, it leaves space for you to utilize the empty
lot space on the other side. This gives you room to create a side garage, small
playground, or even a pool. For some subdivisions, multiple attached houses are placed
next to each other, where homes can share a common wall, making it ideal for bigger or
extended families that want to live near each other. Lastly, a single-attached house is
relatively cheaper than a single-detached house (more on that later).

Downsides
If you’re looking for a house where you’d have the freedom to build around the property,
the house and lot aren’t the ideal ones for you. Additionally, sharing a wall with a
neighbor gives you less privacy than having a wholly detached house.

Creates a strong sense of a community

Living in a subdivision makes you belong in a community especially when you live in a single-
attached homes because of the proximity of the houses, neighbors tend to build strong
connections and bonding. Most residents in a single attached community watch out for each
other’s property especially when a neighbor travels on a holiday.

Affordable

Single-detached two-story houses are less expensive than two-story detached homes this is due
to the house and lot dimensions are relatively smaller. The maintenance of this house is also
lower. It is easier to upkeep for there is no extra space that will maintain e.g., no lawn to trim,
no pool and playground to clean.

Great for extended families

Buying homes for your family and loved ones are always the driving force to make this dream a
reality. Single-attached two-story homes are also ideal for families who want to live on their
own but do not want to live too far from their parents or relatives. These are ideal for extended
families who want to live together but also want to keep their privacy. Because of the proximity
of the houses, the family tends to have a strong connection.
Resale Value

The value of the attached houses can be directly affected by the condition and worth of the
other units. Remodeling and having home improvement can increase the value and appeal of
your single-attached home.

3. Single-detached two-story

The term detached in real estate represents that the property stands alone. A single-detached
property sits alone that there is an open space on the sides plus the front and back, the house is
in the middle of the lot. It is also called.

Single-detached two-story housing provides space between neighbors, it has more floor area
than attached housing and a better sense of privacy. Single-family homes.

What are the benefits of living in a two-story detached home?

Living in a standalone structure may have benefits in terms of value and space.

Benefits
Single-detached homes give you more privacy as it stands independently. You also
have more space around your lot, which provides you with more freedom to utilize more
outdoor living space and allows you to put up a fence and gate should you choose to do
so.

Downside
Compared to the single-attached houses, having a detached property costs more, both
with the house and lot price itself and maintenance costs.

Space

Single-detached houses and lots offer an extra outdoor living space. The open spaces on the
sides and front and back add as an additional buffer from the neighboring properties.

This extra space can increase visual privacy. If you are a pet owner, this extra space can be a
play area for your fur babies. Also having this extra space allows the homeowners the flexibility
for leisure – whether for a swimming pool, patio, or a playground for your children.

Freedom

Owning two-story detached houses gives you the freedom to modify your property. This
freedom allows you to build your landscape out from the extra outdoor living space without
asking permission or approval from the property management.

The only limit of living in a two-story detached property is the building renovation law,
homeowner’s association by-laws, and your budget for home improvement.

Fees

Single-detached homes do not have monthly maintenance fees as you are the one responsible
for the upkeep of your property. You have the option to maintain your property or hire
someone who will do the maintenance for you. If your property is within a subdivision and is
part of a homeowner’s association, you may pay a yearly association fee.

Resale Value

A well-maintained single-detached two-story property offers a higher resale value compared to

single-attached houses. The resale value of the estate is crucial when purchasing your real
estate investment. This is due to the benefits and space and the amenities and condition of your
property.
4. Duplex

According to the website, dictionary.com, a duplex means a house having separate apartments
for two families, especially a two-story house having a complete apartment on each floor and
two separate entrances.

Duplexes are two different houses with separate entrances but are in one lot. It is great for a
family home. Do not confuse a duplex with a twin home, the duplex is a property on one lot.
You can have different owners, but they have shared lot ownership just like condo
homeowner’s interest. A duplex is a type of attached housing made up of two separate
housing units with separate entrances that are placed next to each other (either side-
by-side or above and under, depending on the architectural design) and shares one lot.

What are the benefits of living in a duplex?

Proximity and bonding

Filipinos are often living with their extended family, living in a duplex will help you keep your
privacy while taking care of your elderly loved one. You live right next door to each other. Also,
the duplex is one of the best ways to start your married life, you can live with your wife on the
other door while your parents and siblings live in the other.

Best for First home

Duplex is known as a starter home for newly-weds. Duplex can offer you the perks of living in a
detached home without the pricey budget.
Possible Income

Investing in a duplex is the perfect way to earn an extra income, live on the other side of the
house and rent out the other. By living there, you can monitor if the lessee is being responsible
for taking care of your unit. But be sure that you are a great landlord so there will be extra
income for you and your family.

Safety

Keeping an eye out of your neighbor is one of the unseen rules in living in a subdivision and
community. It is easier for neighbors to look for each other especially during emergencies.

Affordability

People get attracted to investing in duplex because of their affordability. It is cheaper compared
to single-detached two-story houses. Thus, this makes a wise property investment option for
would-be home buyers. You can live in one unit while renting out the other.

Benefits
As lots of Filipino families live near each other, duplex houses are ideal if you’re one of
those people who would want to live close to your extended family. It’s also cheaper
than single-detached houses, and if you wish, you can even choose to buy out both
houses and use one to rent for additional income.

Downsides
On the other hand, it comes with restrictions to having a sense of privacy and freedom
as you will be sharing the lot with a different homeowner, which can be uncomfortable
for some.
5. Townhouse

Filipinos who are starting a family are likely to invest in townhouses. According to a study, 80%
of Filipinos that are aged 35-45 years old want to live in a townhouse.

Lastly, a townhouse is a semi-detached house within a housing complex. While you’re

living next to other townhouses in an area, you’re paying for both the house and lot (as
opposed to living in a condo).

What are the benefits of living in a townhouse?

You are paying for a house and lot for sale.

Townhouses are the answers of land developers in the growing number of Filipinos who want
to own a house. You are paying for a house and lot for sale. Townhouses are like semi-detached
houses in a huge lot.

Situated in prime locations.

Townhouses can be found in densely populated areas in Metro Manila as well as in the
outskirts of the metro. Bria homes, one of the leading housing developers in the Philippines
that is known to bring house and lot packages closer to ordinary Filipino families, have taken
the initiative to bring townhouses in prime locations outside Metro Manila.
More privacy

Townhouses are designed to have separate outside doors. Townhouses do not share hallways
with their neighbors unlike in condos. Mostly, townhouses are gated thus you can enjoy your
privacy at home.

Project turnover is faster

Since the real estate developer of townhouses built fewer units this property can be turn-over
immediately compared to condominiums and subdivisions.

Benefits
A townhouse gives you enough space to live with your family as a house would but with
the benefits of living in a housing complex, including shared amenities. It can be less
expensive compared to buying a single-detached house and lot.

Downsides
You’ll be sharing walls and/or floors with your neighbors for a townhouse, and similar to
a duplex and other attached homes, it comes with its own concerns. You’re also more
restricted in doing what you want to do in your living space as you’ll need to abide by
rules set by the homeowners association of the housing complex.

And that’s it for the list of housing types in the Philippines. After looking through the
house characteristics and the pros and cons of each, which type of house would you
prefer? Remember to factor in the location, budget, and the kind of lifestyle that you’d
want to have as you choose to buy the type of house that best suits your interests!

6. Quadruplex
According to this article, a quadruplex is a residential apartment with 4 private units that can
accommodate a separate individual or family.

What are the benefits of living in a quadruplex?

Easy to manage

This property is easy to manage because it is obvious, managing four properties in one location.
Make sure to schedule a day to visit your tenant in case you decide to rent all four units.

Long term income opportunity

It allows the owner to lease the space that he is not occupying. The owner can occupy one unit
then have the 3 units rented out. This is the best investment for young real estate property
investors.

Increased value

With this 4-plex house and lot, you can generate income from it even when the property values
are slow, just manage your property by giving your tenants better service.

7. Rowhouse
Rowhouse style of housing is also known as clustered housing. These are homes that are in a
row and share common walls, but each unit has the same floor area. Usually, the developer
clustered 4,6,8 up to 10 units per row. Normally the end unit lots benefit from larger lot areas.

This type of house is best for the couple that is just starting a family and, also best for retirees
like OFWs.

What are the pros of living in a rowhouse?

The pros of purchasing a rowhouse type of home are it is comfortable and convenient. It offers
the right size of living space for a family that is just starting. It is less expensive compared to
living in a condo unit.

What are the cons of living in a rowhouse?

The downside of purchasing a rowhouse type of home is it gives you a limit to make expansion
and renovations because you have less interior and exterior space. Also having a shared wall
can be a noise distraction too, especially to barking dogs, loud music, or perhaps a crying baby.
Be sure to take a lot of patience when this happens in your neighborhood.

8. Condominiums
A condominium or “condo” is a single building (whether low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise)
made up of different units, where each condominium unit can be individually owned.
You can find most of these in various urban cities in the Philippines, like Makati, Quezon
City, or Taguig, among others.

Types of condo units

In general, Depending on your preference, there are different types of units to choose
from: studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom unit, or loft.

Studio

This type is best if you live alone or with a partner. In a studio, you’ll find the different
parts of your unit in a single room (except for the bathroom). Compared to the other
types, given its small and compact space, a studio is definitely the most affordable.
Loft

This one is similar to a studio where everything is fitted in a single unit space, except that
it has high ceilings, an elevated bedroom (accessible through stairs), and larger living
spaces. It still does not give you as much privacy as the bedroom is an open area on the
upper floor, but if that’s alright with you and you’d want more space to move around,
this one’s a good choice.

1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom unit

1-BEDROOM UNIT
 2-BEDROOM UNIT

3-BEDROOM UNIT

Exactly as the name suggests, this kind of unit is different from the studio or loft as it has
separate enclosed spaces for the bedrooms. It’s ideal if you prefer to have a more
private sleeping space or if you’re moving in as a small family.

Why choose a condo (or why not)?

Benefits
As most condos are situated in urban places, it’s ideal if you’re looking for convenience
and seeking that “city life.” It’s relatively easy to find one close to your workplace and
places to get necessities (like malls or shopping marts). Also, most condos come with
shared amenities like gyms, swimming pools, and others, all of which you won’t have to
bother maintaining on your own. Security is also a big plus as condos have their own
measures, including built-in devices and guards or other security professionals.

Tip: Besides looking at the building amenities and security provided by a condo, it’s
suggested that you look for one that comes with free parking.
Downsides
While the amenities and security are all great, they, of course, come with a price – which
comes in the form of homeowner association fees that you have to pay monthly. These
fees come on top of other payments that you need to take care of as a condo owner,
such as utility fees and mortgage, and a potentially high cost of living. It also gives you
less freedom and privacy as you live very close to your neighbors, and since you live
right next to (or above/below) them, you’d have to deal with any potential noises.

Multilevel

This is what we more commonly call as “up and down” in that it is made with two or more floors. It is
also a common house plan in the Philippines for privately gated subdivisions.