All You Need to Know About This “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” Condo Type In Singapore

What is a dual key condo layout?

Dual key units, understandably, are larger in floor area compared to typical condo units. It consists of the larger main unit and the smaller sub-unit. Different designs and layouts are aplenty, and dual key units may share as little as only a common foyer or main door or as much as a common kitchen and dining area.

For instance, a dual key unit at Arena Residences shares the kitchen and dining room area, which is great for multigenerational families who want a common area where they can spend quality time together but would be a drawback for families who want more privacy, or homeowners in main units who want to rent out their sub-unit and have their tenants be completely independent of having to use any shared spaces.

Those looking for such privacy would prefer layouts akin to the one The Tapestry Condo offers.

With a sub-unit that comes complete with its own kitchenette and ensuite bathroom, a dual key condo unit at The Tapestry is completely independent of the main unit and shares nothing more than a common private lift lobby.

The Tapestry Condo also bears the tagline: “1 Main Door. 1 Common Area. 2 Separate Lives”, which is telling of the lifestyle it is trying to sell here.

The upsides to getting a dual key condo

The most obvious advantage is that homeowners and investors may legally avoid the ABSD; investors who rent out one or both units would have instantly reaped huge savings just from dodging the hefty ABSD.

Property developers are cashing in on dual key units from the understanding that it allows buyers the option for double tenancy. Different arrangements can come out of owning a dual key unit. Besides multigenerational families, families with a work-from-home member or someone who requires a “SOHO” (small office/home office) can convert the sub-unit into a fully functional office space. Alternatively, family units can make some passive income by renting out the sub-unit to tenants, or savvy investors can rent out both units to different tenants.

The downsides to getting a dual key condo

There’s nothing amazing in Singapore that doesn’t come with a hefty price tag, and dual key units are no exception. With dual key units boasting larger floor areas than regular condo units, they come with a higher price per square foot; a premium for the perks.

For instance, a side-by-side comparison of a 5th-storey, normal 3-bedder at Forett At Bukit Timah costs approximately $2.1 million while its dual key counterpart on the second storey commands at least $2.2 million. Likewise, a normal 3-bedder on the 10th storey at Haus on Handy has an identical price tag of $2.7 million to its dual key 3-bedroom neighbour on the 4th storey.

However, every market has its hierarchy of needs. Dual key condo units may not fit the requirements of those with tighter budgets, while young couples or singles looking for a starter home or bachelor pad to rent may find the cosiness of a dual key sub-unit too claustrophobic. But for multi-generational families who can’t find or are not too keen on a 3Gen flat, a dual key condo may be the best option.

While the novelty of dual key condos have faded over the years, they remain in strong demand for homeowners and investors alike. We don’t foresee this nifty concept phasing out anytime soon.

In summary: Pros and cons of getting a dual key condo

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