Units, villa units, and apartments can look similar to the untrained eye, but from an investor’s perspective, each category brings a different risk, value, and yield profile. Genneva Smarrelli equips sellers and buyers to understand those key differences, so they can make strong, informed decisions in the Victorian property market—especially when selling off-market.
Units
- Typically grouped in single-storey rows, often with land component
- Lower body corporate, generally easier to maintain
- May appeal to downsizers, entry investors, or buyers wanting small garden/courtyards
- Rent and value can outperform similar apartments in the same location, as land value is retained
Villa Units
- A sub-category of units, usually with more privacy and independent street access or driveway
- Even lower density than most units, may be on own title or have small OC
- Increasingly popular with both investors and downsizers for “small home feel”
- Often scarce, which helps keep values resilient over time
Apartments
- Standard “stacked” dwellings in mid- or high-rise complexes
- Typically higher body corporate (more amenities, lifts, shared spaces)
- Entry prices can be lower, but yields and fees must be carefully calculated
What Matters Most to Investor Buyers?
- Land component: Units and villa units can have greater long-term appeal
- Fees/levies vs yield: High OC can erode cash flow, but if yield is strong, remains viable
- Tenant demand: Location, condition, transport, and onsite parking always factor in
- Flexibility and resale: Lower density and more private titles (villa/unit) generally outperform in volatile markets
Summary
Knowing which asset class your property fits means you can present it to buyers best suited for its risk, return, and lifestyle offering. Genneva Smarrelli’s process always starts with education and accurate property classification to maximise outcome—and reduce time on market for entry-level investment property in Victoria.
Find your next property with Collings
Track suburbs, get matched to on-market and off-market listings, and manage your whole property search in one place. Access the Collings property portal.
