Main differences between terraced houses and semi-detached houses

When it comes to buying a second home for holidays, one of the most popular choices for families is to buy a chalet or an apartment with large rooms and open communal areas. With more rooms and more space, this type of home also gives us more privacy than a building can offer. In this context, the most popular options tend to be luxury apartments, duplexes or semi-detached houses.  

Did you know that there are differences between a semi-detached house and a semi-detached house? Although it seems that we are talking about the same type of home, they have different characteristics. Take note of the similarities and differences. Let's start!

What is the difference between a semi-detached house and a detached house? Main keys

They are very similar housing concepts. However, terraced houses and semi-detached houses are not exactly the same. There are some important structural differences that we should highlight. But first, let's look at what each type of detached house is.

What is a terraced house?

A semi-detached house is a single-family dwelling that, although built independently, shares two walls with neighbouring houses. This means that the side walls of the house are in direct contact with the neighbouring houses, leaving only the front and back walls free. This architectural design allows for greater optimisation of space and offers more usable metres compared to an apartment.

The semi-detached houses are characterised by the distribution of their spaces over several floors, thus maximising the available space of each room, and by the presence of a small garden in front or behind the house, an additional space for outdoor enjoyment and family activities.

What is a semi-detached house? 

A semi-detached house is a residential complex that consists of two houses, which are independent of each other and share a single side wall with the neighbouring house. In other words, they are attached to each other and their surfaces are very similar, mirroring each other. This type of house has a much larger surface area than an apartment, but less than a detached house. 

These houses also have a garden or patio to the front and rear, and sometimes to the side, allowing different configurations of outdoor space depending on the privacy preferences of the occupants.

Differences between a semi-detached house and a semi-detached house

The main difference between a semi-detached and a terraced house is the number of walls it shares with its neighbours. Semi-detached houses share only one side wall, while terraced houses share two walls, one on each side. This affects privacy and noise, with semi-detached houses being quieter and more private.

In terms of natural light, semi-detached houses usually have windows on three sides, providing better lighting and ventilation than terraced houses, which only have windows on the front and back. In addition, semi-detached houses tend to have a larger garden surrounding three sides of the house, whereas terraced houses have smaller gardens limited to the front and back.

Another difference between duplexes or terraced houses and semi-detached houses is that terraced houses are usually part of an urbanisation with communal areas such as swimming pools and gardens, while semi-detached houses usually have their own garden and pool, offering greater autonomy. Privacy is also greater in semi-detached houses due to the smaller number of neighbours and the greater amount of outdoor space.

Finally, semi-detached houses offer more flexibility in terms of alterations, whereas detached houses may require neighbours' consent for major changes. 

Prime Invest: Opportunities in new-build terraced houses or semi-detached houses

The choice between a terraced house and a semi-detached house depends on individual needs and preferences, as well as the importance attached to privacy and private and shared outdoor space. Now that you know the differences between the two, take a look at our new residential developments at Prime Invest. We have the finest new development townhouses in the most luxurious residential areas on the Costa del Sol, Ibiza and Punta Cana. The following developments stand out:

• Evergreen Homes : Located in Mijas on the Costa del Sol, this is a modern and private development of 80 townhouses with 3 and 4 bedrooms.
• DUNIQUE : 96 spacious semi-detached apartments, each with 3 bedrooms and spectacular communal areas. Located on the Costa del Sol, on the seafront in Las Chapas, Marbella.

Our experience in the property market makes us your perfect ally in your search for a spacious home. Our team of professional estate agents are ready to offer you specialist advice and guide you through every stage of the buying process. Contact us and we will tell you which are our best townhouses and semi-detached houses.