# Jargon Buster: Property types explained Posted 4/11/2023 by [Alex Moore](/blog/authors/alex-moore) When browsing our extensive list of properties on sale right now we understand that the various terminology used can become confusing. That's why we've pulled together a property type jargon buster. ![3 doors - Red, light blue and dark blue](https://www.reedsrains.co.uk/uploads/blog_post/12_1025_s.jpg?v=328136) When browsing our extensive list of [properties on sale right now](/page/298) we understand that the various terminology used can become confusing. That's why we've pulled together a property type jargon buster. ## Detached / Semi-detached A detached property is a house which stands by itself, not sharing any walls with any other buildings. A semi-detached property is a house which shares one wall with another property. ## Town house / Terrace A town house / terrace property is a house which is a part of a row of similar houses, sharing both side walls with neighbouring properties, in an urban area. Sometimes 3 or more storey houses are referred to as town houses. ## End of terrace An end of terrace property is a semi-detached home on the end of a row of terrace / town houses. ## Cottage A cottage is a small property, typically in a rural area. While cottages are often of traditional build, the term can be used for more modern dwellings too. ## Bungalow A [bungalow](/bungalows-for-sale/england) is a property with only one floor and is either detached or semi-detached. ## Villa A villa is a large country property, usually in the countryside or near the ocean. Villas are usually detached. ## Mansion A mansion is an exceptionally large property, usually grand and luxurious in nature and often the most expensive. While new-build mansions are available, they are usually older with a rich history. ## Period A period property is an older house, typically build before the First World War. ## Plot A [plot](/properties-for-sale/england/!/type/4) is a piece of vacant land. They can be in rural or urban areas, sometimes contain a disused property on them, and are perfect for development. ## Flat A [flat](/flats-for-sale/england) is an individual residence made up of multiple rooms and is contained to just one floor. They typically have a communal entrance and staircases. ## Studio A studio is a flat which has just one room and a separate bathroom. The single living space is usually a decent size with all your expected amenities such as cooking facilities and a bed. ## Maisonette A maisonette is a flat which has two or more floors and its own private entrance leading from outside. The term maisonette comes from France and translates to small or little house. ## Duplex A duplex is also a flat which has two or more floors. What differentiates a duplex from a maisonette is that it does not have a private entrance leading from outside. ## Garage A [garage](/properties-for-sale/england/!/type/5) is a small building for storing motor vehicles. Garages are usually a part of a larger property, they can be purchased on their own, which is useful for urban areas with poor parking facilities. ## Conversion A converted property is one that has had its function or use changed. For example, a former hotel being converted into apartments, or a former church being converted into a detached home. ## Annex An annex is an additional building joined to or associated with a main building. ## Bothy A bothy is a small basic rural property, usually with one door. ##### --- If you're considering what's next for your property ownership journey, explore the wide range of properties available with Reeds Rains today. [Find out more](/page/298) ![Alex Moore](https://www.reedsrains.co.uk/uploads/blog_author/12_6_t.jpg?v=27156) [Alex Moore](/blog/authors/alex-moore) Reeds Rains E-marketing Executive