Different Property Types in Malaysia

1. Bungalow

A bungalow is a standalone landed property usually surrounded by a garden and can vary in size. Bungalows often symbolize affluent ownership as these properties tend to be expensive. Owners also enjoy the flexibility to customize their houses according to their design preferences due to the spacious land area.

Bungalow prices fluctuate depending on their locations and sizes. A standard 4 to 5 bedroom bungalow typically falls in the price range of RM3.5 to 6 million. The standard built-up size for a bungalow can range from 2,000 square feet to 12,500 square feet. However, it’s important to note that the built-up size can extend beyond these figures, making bungalows one of the most spacious residential options available.”

Many bungalows are distinguished by their uniqueness, as each one is custom-designed and constructed by its owners on land purchased from developers. Also, bungalows typically feature a garden, parking area and a spacious plot of land that surrounds the home.

2. Terrace

A terrace house shares walls with both sides of the neighborhood. The corner units of terrace houses usually have more land on one side, giving them a semi-detached feel. Depending on the width of the houses, each row can accommodate 10 to 12 units. These units typically consist of 1 to 3 storeys.

The terms “terrace,” “link,” and “superlink” houses are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they differ in size. Terrace houses, the smallest of the three, typically measure 22 ft x 75 ft. Link houses are larger than terrace houses but smaller than superlink houses, with superlink houses being the largest at around 34 ft x 80 ft.

3. Townhouse

A townhouse usually consists of two homes within a single building, either stacked on top of each other or attached side by side. Visually, it presents as a single home from the outside.

The typical size can vary from 560 square feet to 7,000 square feet. Some units share a common entrance and porch area, while others have separate entrances at the front, back or side by side. The layouts can also differ. In a two-storey unit, each owner has a single level of space. In contrast, in a three-storey unit, it is possible for each owner to possess a floor and a half.

4. Semi-Detached and Detached House

Semi-detached houses, identical in design, share a common wall with their neighboring house. They represent a step below bungalows in terms of luxury, status, and size. Known for their spacious areas and gardens, these homes are an excellent choice for large families or those with pets.

Detached houses combine aspects of both semi-detached homes and bungalows. Similar to semi-detached homes, they mirror their neighbors in design but differ in that detached houses do not share a wall. Unlike bungalows, which are usually enclosed by a garden, detached houses are surrounded by gardens on three sides. The side adjacent to their neighbor often serves as the house’s driveway.

5. Shop House

Shophouses are single units of two or three-storey shops located within commercial areas. Ground floor units are often occupied by restaurants, banks, or retail stores, while the upper floors are occasionally used as residential spaces. These upper floors may be occupied by the owners of the businesses below or utilized as dormitories for their employees.

The title for the homes above the shops is often referred to as a “Mixed-Use” or “Commercial” title. If the developer fails to change the land title to a residential one for these homes, they will not be entitled to HDA protection.

6. Shop Lot

Shop lots are commercial properties located in commercial areas. These shops typically consist of 1 to 3 storeys and are often arranged in a row, resembling a terrace. It’s important to differentiate shop lots from retail lots or units found within shopping malls, as these retail units vary in size and number of storeys.

These property types typically hold a commercial title and do not benefit from HDA protection.

7. Condominium and serviced apartment

Condominiums consist of high-end units within high-rise buildings, offering a diverse range of facilities. They are typically developed on a land plot spanning a minimum of 4,000 square meters. Additionally, condominiums often boast high security and premium facilities, such as indoor parking, elevators, fitness centers, swimming pools, playgrounds, and landscaped areas.

Another property type similar to condominiums is known as a “serviced apartment,” “serviced residence,” or “serviced suite.” These properties are similar to hotels. For example, serviced apartments provide amenities like room service, housekeeping and bellboy services. These fully furnished units are ideal for both short-term and long-term stays catering to individuals in need of flexible living arrangements.

These two types of properties have residential titles so it can be protected by HDA.

8. Apartment and Flat

Apartments typically consist of multiple budget-friendly units within high-rise buildings, often exceeding 5 storeys in height. These developments are commonly gated and guarded, providing essential facilities such as lifts, outdoor parking spaces, playgrounds, and landscaped areas.

In contrast, flats are shorter and smaller structures, usually limited to 5 storeys, offering fewer facilities. Flats usually provide outdoor parking spaces but lack amenities like lifts, playgrounds, and landscaped areas. Additionally, they typically lack gated and guarded security.

9. Penthouse and Duplex

A penthouse is a single-story unit situated on the highest floor of a residential high-rise building. Its size can range from occupying half of the top floor to encompassing the entire top floor. Typically, there are one or two penthouses in a residential high-rise. Due to their rarity, penthouses rank among the most expensive property units in Malaysia.

In contrast, duplexes or lofts are double-story units within residential high-rises. Both penthouses and duplexes are furnished and equipped with high-end, luxurious features and amenities. These units often offer a wide range of private facilities, including private lifts, lobbies, swimming pools, and gymnasiums.

These two types of properties can carry either residential or commercial title, depending on the Land title.

10. Integrated Development

Integrated development is also termed as mixed-use development which encompass various components, including commercial, residential, entertainment, and more.

Developers can apply for residential titles for their residential titles to get the protection of HDA. If not, all sections within integrated developments hold commercial titles and do not fall under the safeguard of HDA.

Types of Properties	Protection by HDA
Bungalow	Yes
Terrace	Yes
Townhouse	Yes
Semi-Detached and Detached House	Yes
Shop House	No
Shop Lot	No
Condominium and Serviced Apartment	Yes
Apartment and Flat	Yes
Penthouse and Duplex	Depends
Integrated Development	No

Understanding these property terminologies is crucial, whether you are looking to rent a house or are a first-time homebuyer. It ensures that you make an informed decision and select a property that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. This knowledge empowers you to choose the right type of property which makes your investment or living situation more satisfying and suitable.

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