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DualOcc Homes

Get more from your land with Metricon's dual occupancy homes. Designed for investors, downsizers or families looking to stay close, these homes offer flexible options, modern finishes and expert guidance to help you build with confidence.

Make more of your block with dual occ homes

If you're like many Australians, you're looking for smarter ways to use your block of land. Maybe you need room for extended family, want to boost your income, or you're ready to downsize without giving up your backyard. That's where dual occupancy homes come in.

Dual occupancy is fast becoming a popular choice across Australia. Families, investors, downsizers and even first home buyers are seeing the benefits. And with Metricon, you're backed by a team that knows how to bring the right dual occ solution to life on your block.

What is a dual occ home?

A dual occupancy home, also known as a dual occ, is when two separate dwellings are built on a single block. These can be attached or detached and may sit on a single title or be subdivided, depending on your goals and what the local council allows.

Each home has its own entrance, living areas, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. In most cases, they’re fully self-contained and offer private, independent living spaces for each household.

This type of setup is becoming more common across Australian suburbs because it gives homeowners more choice and flexibility. Dual occupancy homes create the opportunity for dual living without needing two blocks of land.

Is a duplex or granny flat similar to a dual occupancy home?

They are often thought to be the same thing, but there are key differences:

  • A duplex is typically two homes joined by a common wall, but a dual occupancy home can be attached or detached
  • A duplex usually shares a roofline and facade, dual occ allows more variation in design and layout
  • Granny flats are smaller secondary dwellings and are usually not separately titled. Dual occupancy homes are larger and more versatile.

So while they can overlap, a dual occ home gives you broader design and planning options than a duplex or granny flat.

Considering DualOcc? Reasons to Build With Metricon

Why Choose Metricon?

Metricon have been successfully building new homes since 1976. That’s over 50 years of experience! So you can be assured that the home we deliver to you is built with years of experience.

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Our Difference

When you choose Metricon, we go above and beyond the role of a builder to become your development partner. You'll have the security of working with a market leading builder and benefit from our buying power. Our specialist DualOcc by Metricon team will help you every step of the way. From choosing facades, to exploring our extensive multi-unit design range, we ensure your building journey with Metricon is simple and stress-free.

What Our Customers Say

Why dual occ homes just make sense

There are plenty of reasons why more Australians are choosing dual occupancy developments:

  • Create extra income through rental income or Airbnb
  • Help adult children, elderly parents, or other family members live close by
  • Offer more privacy while sharing the same block
  • Boost the resale value of your property
  • Turn one block into two homes for extended family
  • Ideal for downsizers who still want space
  • Maximise your block without needing to move

Dual occupancy homes suit a wide range of living arrangements. This makes them perfect for growing families, multi-generational households, owner-occupiers and savvy investors alike.

The key is in the design

Making dual living work comes down to thoughtful design. With Metricon, you can choose from a range of floorplans tailored for different blocks, frontages and living needs.

Here are a few design tips to get the most from your build:

  • Include separate access points for each home
  • Choose mirrored layouts for efficiency and balance
  • Use a shared wall only if privacy is maintained
  • Separate garages or driveways for easier parking
  • Add fences or landscaping to define private outdoor zones

You can choose single storey or double storey options based on your site and planning requirements. Metricon’s dual occupancy home designs are created with liveability in mind, so every detail works for modern Australian families.

Is a council approval necessary?

Yes, you’ll need council approval for any dual occupancy house. Each local council has different zoning rules, so what’s allowed in one suburb may not be in another.

Things like minimum lot size, frontage, overlays, and access all come into play. Subdivision adds another layer of approval. That’s why it's important to work with experienced builders like Metricon. Our team understands local planning requirements and can guide you through the process from the start.

Meet Keyur & Beejal & Their Key For DualOcc Success

Customer Testimonial

Costs and things to consider before you commit

Building a dual occupancy property is more complex than building a single dwelling. But with good planning, it can be well worth it.

Here’s what to factor in:

  • Design and drafting costs
  • Site preparation and access works
  • Local council approval fees
  • Subdivision costs if you want separate titles
  • Construction and material costs

But while the upfront cost might be steeper, dual occupancy homes can offer strong income streams and solid resale value. It's also a great investment opportunity. You may be able to live in one and rent the other, or sell one dwelling to help fund your new home.

Is a dual occ home the right fit for you?

Think about how you plan to use the space and what your future needs might be.

  • Do you need space for family members?
  • Are you looking for an investment opportunity?
  • Is your goal to create extra income from rental income?
  • Would you like to downsize but stay close to loved ones?
  • Does your block suit dual occupancy development?

If you answered yes to any of these, a dual occupancy home could be a smart move.

Why build with Metricon?

We’ve helped thousands of Australians design and build their dream home, and dual occ is no exception. Here’s why Metricon is the right choice:

  • We offer a wide range of dual occupancy home designs
  • Experience dealing with local councils and zoning
  • Expert guidance through the approval and planning process
  • Professional help with interior selections for both dwellings
  • Trusted by Australian homeowners for over 45 years
  • Flexible single or double storey options
  • House and land packages that suit dual occupancy builds

Your guide to building DualOcc

Considering a DualOcc project? Dive into our comprehensive DualOcc guidebook, covering everything you need to know about the building processes involved.

Customers That Started The DualOcc Journey & It Looks Soooo Good

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Let’s talk about what’s possible on your block

If you’ve been thinking about dual occupancy, now’s the time to find out what your land could do for you. Our team can help assess your block, walk you through your options and find the right dual occupancy design to match. Talk to us today and let’s plan something that works for your family, your lifestyle and your future.

Get in touch and start your DualOcc journey with Metricon today

Our specialist DualOcc by Metricon team will help you every step of the way. From choosing facades, to exploring our extensive multi-unit design range, we ensure your building journey with Metricon is simple and stress-free.

FAQs:

1. Is dual occupancy worth it?

Yes, it can be. It’s a smart way to add value, create income, or make room for family without buying a second block. It can also future-proof your property for years to come.

2. What are the zoning requirements for a dual occupancy home?

Zoning varies depending on your local council. Each council sets their own requirements for block size, frontage, access and overlays. It’s best to speak with Metricon early so we can assess your block and help with planning.

3. Can dual occupancy be sold separately in NSW?

In many cases, yes, if the site meets subdivision requirements and gains council approval. Dual occupancy properties can be on a single title or split into two titles, depending on your plans.

4. Is dual-occupancy better than a granny flat?

It depends on your goals. Granny flats are smaller and not always suitable for separate rental. Dual occupancy homes offer more flexibility, more space, and stronger resale potential.

5. Can I get a loan for a dual occupancy development?

Yes, but it’s more complex than a standard home loan. You’ll need to show your plans and approvals, and some lenders may require separate valuations. We recommend speaking with a broker early in the process.