Purchasing a home is, for many of us, a dream – one that’s becoming harder and harder to realise. There is no longer any way to hide the fact that Australia is undergoing a severe housing crisis. New developments of dual occupancy homes, while not a silver bullet to the situation, can be an effective way to increase housing supply, to have a place to call home, and to potentially earn great rental income.
In this article, we will discuss dual occupancy homes and whether they can help provide a practical solution for future homeowners dealing with Australia’s housing crisis.
Why Are Australian Homes So Expensive? A Perfect Storm
The dream of home ownership becoming a reality for all Australians is now long in the rear-view mirror and an increasingly challenging task for most young Australians today.
It was a major issue during the 2025 federal elections. Australia’s housing demand continues to grow, but supply isn’t keeping up. Factors like limited land availability in high-demand areas, planning restrictions and low-density zoning make it harder to meet the needs of future homeowners. Dual occupancy homes offer a smart solution by making better use of existing land and providing more flexible, efficient housing options.
Do Dual Occupancy Homes Help Solve the Issue?
While no single housing type can fully solve the challenges facing the Australian property market, dual occupancy homes can certainly play a role in addressing growing demand. These homes are an increasingly popular choice, particularly in suburban areas near major city centres where land is in high demand.
By making better use of larger blocks, dual occupancy builds allow two modern homes to share a single lot, providing more housing in the same space. This approach supports gentle increases in density while still maintaining the feel of established neighbourhoods.
For future homeowners, building a dual occupancy property can be a smart move. Whether you live in one and rent the other, accommodate extended family, or invest in both, it’s a flexible and future-focused way to maximise the value of your land.
Benefits of Dual Occupancy Homes
Some of the benefits of investing in dual occupancy homes include the following:
- make better use of large suburban blocks
- create two homes on one title, increasing potential rental income
- provide flexible living arrangements (live in one, rent or sell the other)
- help meet housing demand in growing areas
- increase property value and equity over time
- suitable for multi-generational living or downsizing
- contribute to gentle urban infill without high-rise development.
How to Get on the Property Ladder and Provide Housing with Dual Occupancy Homes
According to the BBC, Australian housing prices have surpassed A$1.2 million in Sydney and a combined A$900,000 in other major cities, e.g. Brisbane and Melbourne. It’s getting harder and harder for young people to purchase property in the country they call home, but those who have the means to acquire capital for a down payment can still get on the ladder.
Investing in a dual occupancy home can yield tremendous returns financially, whilst also helping (even if marginally) to alleviate Australia’s housing crisis.
Trevor Homes
Invest in dual occupancy homes by contacting us at Trevor Homes.
