What Is a Maisonette and Are They Hard to Sell?

When browsing property listings in the UK, you may have come across the term maisonette. It’s not as commonly used as ‘flat’ or ‘terraced house’, which may leave many homeowners or first-time buyers wondering what a maisonette is and, more importantly, how difficult they are to sell.

Maisonettes, while slightly niche, are surprisingly popular with a specific buyer demographic. This guide will help you understand what a maisonette is, highlight its advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately answer the question – how long does it take to sell a maisonette?

What is a maisonette?

The term maisonette is derived from the French term for ‘little house’. In the UK, it refers to a self-contained residential unit that usually occupies two floors within a larger building and, more importantly, has its own private entrance, often from the street.

Maisonettes are commonly found in cities and suburbs. They are frequently located:

• Above shops or garages
• In converted Victorian or Edwardian houses
• Within purpose-built blocks with split-level designs

Despite frequently being confused with flats or apartments, maisonettes are distinguished by their multi-floor layout and private access, which make them feel more like a traditional house.

Key characteristics of a maisonette

Maisonettes vary in style and structure, but the majority share the following features:

• There is no communal hallway or stairwell; only a private front door
• They have two floors – typically with a living area downstairs and bedrooms upstairs
• Potential for outdoor space, such as a garden, balcony, or even a garage
• Ownership structure can be leasehold or freehold, depending on the building

What are the advantages of owning a maisonette?

Maisonettes are an appealing option for both buyers and investors in comparison to traditional flats or houses. Here’s why they’re often a good buy:

1. More Privacy and Independence

The private entrance results in less noise, fewer interactions with neighbours, and greater autonomy. This is a significant advantage for those who dislike communal living arrangements.

2. More space for less money

Maisonettes frequently offer more square footage than similarly priced flats or even terraced houses, particularly when spread across two floors.

3. Outdoor space

Some maisonettes, particularly those on the ground floor, have private gardens, which is appealing to young families, pet owners, or anyone looking to enjoy outdoor space without paying the cost of a full house.

4. Versatile layout

The split-level layout creates a natural separation between the living and sleeping areas. This layout appeals to a wide range of people, including working professionals and small families.

5. Good investment potential

Maisonettes in well-connected areas frequently do well on the rental market. They appeal to tenants seeking more than a traditional flat because of their affordability and spaciousness.

What are the disadvantages of a maisonette?

Of course, no property type is without drawbacks. When it comes to maisonettes, several potential issues can affect their resale value or ease of sale.

1. Leasehold issues

Most maisonettes are leasehold, which means you own the property but not the land it sits on. Leasehold homes often involve:

• Ground rent charges
• Service charges for communal areas (if applicable)
• Lease lengths that may need extending (at a cost)
• Difficulty selling or remortgaging if the lease drops below 80 years

Buyers are becoming more cautious about leasehold properties, particularly in light of recent leasehold reform controversies in the UK.

2. Access and mobility

Upper-floor maisonettes frequently have external staircases. This may be unsuitable for elderly buyers, families with young children, or people with mobility issues, reducing your potential buyer base.

3. Potential noise or disputes

If the maisonette shares a building with another unit, soundproofing issues or neighbour disputes may arise, particularly in converted older buildings with less insulation.

4. Mortgage restrictions

Some lenders may have stricter criteria for lending on maisonettes, particularly those located above commercial premises such as shops or takeaways.

Are maisonettes hard to sell?

Now for the big question: are maisonettes difficult to sell? The honest answer is that it depends on a few key factors:

1. Location matters

Maisonettes in popular urban areas, particularly those near public transportation, good schools, and amenities, tend to perform well. Buyers are more likely to overlook flaws if the location is appealing.

2. Lease length

The length of the lease is an important factor in determining saleability. A short lease (usually less than 80 years) can:

• Deter potential buyers
• Affect the valuation
• Limit mortgage eligibility

If you want to sell your property, consider extending the lease beforehand to make it more appealing.

3. Presentation and upkeep

A well-kept maisonette with modern interiors and good curb appeal can attract a lot of attention. Upgrades such as double glazing, modern kitchens, and updated decor can make a huge difference.

4. Marketing strategy

It’s critical to emphasise the advantages, such as the private entrance, split-level layout, and outdoor area. These features distinguish maisonettes from flats and should be prominently displayed in your estate agent’s marketing materials.

5. Buyer demographic

Maisonettes often appeal to specific buyers, such as:

• First-time buyers
• Young couples
• Small families
• Investors

Tailoring your marketing and pricing to these audiences can increase your chances of making a quick sale.

Tips for selling a maisonette quickly

If you’re thinking about selling your maisonette, here are some practical steps you can take to increase your chances of a quick sale:

1. Get the Lease Checked – If the lease is less than 85-90 years old, request a valuation for an extension
2. Address maintenance issues such as damp patches, broken fittings, and old carpets
3. Use light, neutral decor to highlight the space and flow of the two-storey layout
4. Highlight Unique Features – Emphasise the private entrance, any outdoor space, and the homelike atmosphere
5. Consider a Quick-Sale Service – If time is of the essence, cash house buyers can provide a sale in just a few weeks, with no estate agent fees or delays.

If you want to sell your maisonette without the uncertainty of the open market, Sell House Fast can help. We buy any house in any condition anywhere in the country, and can complete within a time frame that works for you.

Request your free cash offer today, with no obligation, stress, or delays.