Overview: Types of Rental Units

Overview: Every Type of Rental Unit

There are many types of rental units, and they can be categorized based on structure, size, layout, and intended use. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:

1. Apartment Types

• Studio Apartment (Efficiency Unit) – A single open space with a combined living, sleeping, and kitchen area, plus a separate bathroom.
• Micro-Apartment – A compact version of a studio, usually under 400 sq. ft., designed for urban areas.
• Convertible/Alcove Studio – A studio with a small separate space (alcove) for sleeping.
• One-Bedroom Apartment – A unit with a separate bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
• Two-/Three-/Four-Bedroom Apartment – Multi-bedroom units that accommodate larger households.
• Loft Apartment – A large open space, typically in a converted industrial building, with high ceilings and minimal interior walls.
• Garden Apartment – A unit on the ground level with direct outdoor access, sometimes part of a small complex with green spaces.
• Basement Apartment – A rental unit in the basement of a building, often at a lower cost.
• Penthouse Apartment – A high-end, top-floor apartment with luxury finishes and private terraces.
• Walk-Up Apartment – A unit in a building without an elevator.
• Railroad Apartment – A narrow unit with rooms aligned in a row, often in older buildings.

2. Single-Family Rentals

• Single-Family Home – A detached house rented out to one tenant or family.
• Townhouse – A multi-story home that shares walls with adjacent units but has a private entrance.
• Duplex/Triplex/Fourplex – A building divided into two, three, or four separate rental units.

3. Multifamily and Shared Living Units

• Multifamily Property Unit – An apartment within a large building or complex with multiple rental units.
• Co-Living Unit – A private bedroom with shared common spaces (kitchen, living room) in a community-oriented setting.
• Room Rental – A single room in a house or apartment, with shared access to common areas.
• In-Law Suite (Accessory Dwelling Unit, ADU, Granny Flat) – A smaller independent unit within or adjacent to a single-family home.

4. Specialty and Purpose-Built Rentals

• Corporate Housing – Fully furnished apartments available for short-term business stays.
• Short-Term/Vacation Rental – A furnished rental available for days or weeks, often on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
• Student Housing – Apartments or dorm-style housing designed for college students, often with individual leases.
• Senior Housing – Apartments or homes designed for residents aged 55+, sometimes with assisted living options.
• Live/Work Unit – A space designed for both residential and business use, common for artists and freelancers.
• Furnished Apartment – A unit that comes with essential furniture, targeting short-term renters.
• Section 8 / Income-Restricted Housing – Rental units available to low-income tenants, subsidized by government programs.

5. Luxury and High-End Rentals

• Luxury Apartment – High-end rentals with premium finishes, amenities, and concierge services.
• Serviced Apartment – A fully furnished rental with hotel-like services, ideal for long-term stays.
• High-Rise Apartment – A unit in a tall building, usually offering upscale amenities.