Duplex living has become one of the strongest housing trends in NSW and Australia in recent years. As we move into 2026, more families and investors are choosing duplex homes because they offer flexibility, value and smarter use of land. With housing costs rising and family needs changing, a duplex is no longer viewed as a niche choice. It is now a practical and popular solution for many types of buyers.
If you are an investor, a multi-generational family or someone looking to upgrade, understanding why duplex living is growing can help you make better decisions when planning your next home. Here is a closer look at the key reasons behind this growing shift.
1. Housing and Cost Pressures Are Changing Buyer Behaviour
The cost of buying land and building a home has continued to rise in NSW. Many buyers are looking for ways to make better use of their land while also improving long-term value. A duplex allows you to build two homes on a single block. This gives you more flexibility with how you use the property and more potential for long term returns.
Families also see duplexes as a way to future proof their investment. Whether they choose to rent one side or use both sides for family members, a duplex helps them get more out of their land.
2. Multi Generational Living Is Increasing
More Australian households now include parents, adult children or grandparents. This trend will continue to rise through 2026. Many families want to stay close, but they also want privacy and independence. A duplex offers two separate homes with their own living spaces, kitchens and entrances, while still keeping everyone on the same site.
This setup works well for many situations.
For example:
• Elderly parents who want to stay close to family
• Adult children saving for their own future home
• Families needing support with childcare
• Parents wanting to help children build independence
A duplex brings everyone together without the challenges of sharing one home. It is a smart balance between connection and privacy.
3. Investment Potential and Dual Income
Investors have become more focused on long term value and stable rental income. A duplex is attractive because it can generate two rental incomes from one block of land. This helps reduce risk and makes the investment more profitable.
Other reasons investors are choosing duplexes include:
• Strong demand from renters
• Better land utilisation
• Long term capital growth
• Future flexibility to sell one or both homes
With two rental streams, investors can achieve higher yields and more stable cashflow. This has made duplexes a popular choice across NSW investment markets.
4. Favourable Government Policies and Regulations
Recent planning reforms in NSW are encouraging the construction of duplexes to address housing shortages and improve affordability. The Low and Mid Rise Housing Policy, along with earlier changes in 2024 and 2025, have expanded duplex approvals to more suburbs. Many R2 zones now allow duplexes on suitable blocks and the approval process is clearer and more predictable.
Standardised lot sizes, minimum frontage rules and simplified design controls have made it easier for families and investors to understand what they can build. This greater certainty has encouraged more people to explore duplex living.
While every block is different, the overall shift in planning rules has played a major role in the rising demand for duplex homes.
5. Duplexes Offer More Flexibility for the Future
Flexibility is one of the biggest reasons duplex living is growing. Buyers can use the two homes in many ways over time. You might live in one and rent the other. You might house parents now and then switch to rental use later. You might start with two rentals and eventually bring a family member into one side.
This ability to adjust the use of the property as your needs change makes a duplex a very practical long term choice. It also gives families more control and more security for the future.
6. Duplexes Have Strong Resale Appeal
As more people understand the benefits of duplex living, resale demand is rising. Buyers see duplexes as valuable assets because they offer versatility and income potential. Even if you do not plan to rent out part of the home, the next buyer may want to. This wider buyer interest can support higher resale values.
For families planning a long term investment strategy, this growing resale appeal is another reason to consider a duplex.
How Kurmond Homes Supports the Growth of Duplex Living
Kurmond Homes has seen this shift first hand. More of our customers are asking for duplexes and multi dwelling options because they want homes that support their lifestyle and investment goals. Kurmond has duplex designs already suited to NSW planning rules. These designs offer practical layouts, strong street appeal and features that attract both families and renters.
Here is how Kurmond helps customers explore duplex living:
Designs ready for NSW rules
Kurmond duplex designs are designed to comply with current planning requirements and lot conditions.
Site checks and feasibility support
We help you determine whether your block is suitable and which design options are available.
Family friendly and investor friendly layouts
Our designs include practical living zones, generous bedrooms and layouts that suit both renting and multi-generational use.
Clear guidance through approvals and planning
Duplex builds can involve more steps, so we support you through the process from early planning to handover.
Quality builds that perform long term
A duplex is a long term investment. Our focus on strong construction and detail ensures your property holds value and appeals to future buyers or tenants.
Kurmond Homes is well placed to support the rising demand for duplex living across NSW.
Conclusion
Duplex living is growing fast in 2026 because it offers real value, flexibility and long term security. Families want more space and privacy. Investors want stronger rental returns. And NSW planning reforms have made duplex development easier and more accessible.
For many buyers, a duplex is no longer simply a smart investment. It is a practical and future ready way to live. Kurmond Homes is here to help you explore duplex options that match your goals and suit your land. If you are ready to look at your possibilities, our team can guide you through every step.
If you want to discuss how this trend could fit your investment goals, we are here to help.
Call us today: 1300 764 761 | kurmondhomes.com.au
