April 2022 Bronwyn Farr - Cairns Post: A MOVE toward higher density living in Cairns with duplexes becoming part of the housing landscape has been proposed as potentially solving a critical shortage of housing across the region.

Proponents believe duplexes make good use of scarce land, offer an affordable entry option for first homeowners, and unlike units, apartments and townhouses, aren’t saddled with hefty body corporate fees.

Cairns Property Office agent Shane Trimby, who recently sold a duplex at Whitfield, said demand was strong for reasonably priced duplexes.

“The attraction is that there are no body corporate fees,” Mr Trimby said.

“Half duplexes are very popular and probably come up for sale more than the full duplex – investors are attracted to full duplexes and owner occupiers are attracted to the half duplex as they are affordable.”

Mr Trimby agreed there could be more duplexes.

“Good quality units with a little courtyard or grass are very hard to find, this also makes duplex living more popular,” he said.

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