Individuals chasing their dream house goals in a big city often come across the two popularly used real estate property jargon, “flat” and “apartment”. Often the terms are used interchangeably, considering the meaning to be the same.
Flat and apartment, essentially, refer to personal living space at the same storey within a much bigger building. Despite having the same purpose and features, some differences between these two types of living spaces exist based on certain factors. Having said that, the most striking difference — the very origin of these words — is not based on any feature but language.
Americans prefer the word ‘apartment’, while the British call it ‘flat’.
This blog will discuss the prime difference between a flat and an apartment, starting with a little introduction to flat and apartment meanings.
What Is a Flat?
A flat is referred to as a living space when it is part of a building, and the building is part of a cluster of buildings. It can be related to townships, gated communities, etc.
What Is an Apartment?
An apartment is also a living space which is a part of a building. However, the building is not part of a community or a cluster of buildings.
What is the Difference Between Apartment and Flat?
| Factor | Apartment | Flat |
| Linguistic Usage | Americans call the living space as Apartment | British people prefer using the word flat. |
| Style | Apartments are considered posh living spaces with the best quality amenities. | Flats are considered standard living spaces with basic amenities. |
| Size | Comparatively bigger with spacious rooms having premium finishes. | Comparatively smaller residential units |
| Cost | High | Comparatively low |
| Layout | Offered in a variety of layouts | Offered in standard layouts |
| Structure | May have a multi-storey living space. | Predominantly single-storey living space |
| Target customer group | High-income groups | Middle-income groups |
Benefits of Apartments and Flats
While flats and apartments have certain striking differences, a few benefits apply to both apartments and flats.
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Low maintenance
The maintenance costs are shared between the residents living in the apartments or flats. Therefore, the maintenance costs related to general upkeep, repairs, etc., are often lower than individual residential properties or villas. -
Security
Apartments and flats have enhanced security features, such as gated entrances, surveillance systems, etc., to ensure that residents feel safe and live in peace. -
Amenities
Apartments and flats are built around a huge space to include a host of amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centres, yoga and meditation tracks, clinics, etc., to provide varied services to the residents within the premises for a better standard of living. -
Location
A flat or apartment is constructed in a location that is well connected to the different parts of the city using transport infrastructures such as public bus transport, metro, etc.
Flat vs Apartment: What to Purchase?
Individuals planning to purchase a residential property confused between a flat or an apartment can consider the following factors to make a well-planned decision.
1. Budget
As apartments are posh living spaces, they have the best quality amenities and, therefore, cost comparatively more than a flat. Therefore, people looking for a budget-friendly living space with ordinary amenities can opt for a flat, and others seeking a luxury space can pitch in for an apartment.
2. Lifestyle preferences
Individuals preferring an independent or private living space with the best modern amenities can opt for an apartment. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lively environment with better social interactions can choose a flat.
3. Purchase intent
Purchase intent is important to decide on a property. Individuals looking for a lifetime settlement should consider a flat or apartment that will suit their lifestyle in the long term and at the right location. And for a purchase intention such as resale, it should be based on the property value and the location primarily compared to the lifestyle preferences.
Conclusion
“Flat” and “apartment” are often used interchangeably in India, but they have differences in terms of structure, style, cost, etc. While flats are considered budget-friendly properties with standard living spaces, apartments are associated with posh and better living standards.
Flats and apartments both offer almost similar benefits, but the choice of purchase between the two is often based on lifestyle and financial considerations. Understanding flat and apartment differences and making a well-informed decision is crucial for happy and peaceful living!
If you’re planning to buy luxury residential apartments in Mumbai, take an E-tour of Piramal Realty apartments to experience luxury living. Among the best real estate firms in India, it provides opulent homes with a relaxing ambience complemented by state-of-the-art amenities.
Disclaimer- This article is based on the information publicly available for general use as well as reference links mentioned herein. We do not claim any responsibility regarding the genuineness of the same. The information provided herein does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. We expressly disclaim /disown any liability, which may arise due to any decision taken by any person/s basis the article hereof. Readers should obtain separate advice with respect to any particular information provided herein.
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