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What is a Standalone Building: Meaning, Features and its Comparison With Gated Communities
Published : February 22, 2022, 2:37 PM
Updated : January 8, 2026, 4:55 PM
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When it comes to selecting your home, there are a lot of available options in the market. However, all these options can be widely categorised into two categories- standalone and gated. A standalone building is a simple building without any promised amenities. On the other hand, a gated community offers well-organised amenities in a planned neighbourhood. Let's weigh Standalone Building VS Gated Community, the pros and cons of both these categories and find out what is the most preferred type among the new-gen buyers.
Standalone building-Quick info Table
A standalone building means an independent structure, typically owned by an individual or small group, offering complete autonomy, flexibility, and the freedom to design and utilise the space according to one’s specific preferences. Here’s a quick check to help you understand what a standalone building looks like, so you can make an informed decision.
| Aspects | Details |
| Definition | A freestanding structure not attached to any other building. |
| Common Types | Residential (builder floors), commercial (standalone offices). |
| Typical Height | 2-4 floors depending upon local zoning laws |
| Ownership | Often privately owned; may be leased or rented. |
| Amenities | Limited and no shared amenities like a gym and clubs |
| Privacy level | High; no shared walls or common areas. |
| Maintenance | Homeowners are completely responsible to keep up |
What is a Standalone Building?
The standalone building definition is a residential complex or building which is free-standing, made from the point of view of a single-family occupancy. These buildings generally lack amenities like a gymnasium, swimming pool and security guards. The price of a standalone building is significantly lesser than a gated community.
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What is a Gated Community?
A gated community definition is a form of residential housing that was primarily developed to reduce the real estate cluttering happening in major cities of the world. As the name suggests, a gated community is an enclosed, well-maintained building with amenities being provided by the developer.
What is an Independent House?
An independent house is a self-contained structure built on a privately owned plot of land, typically belonging to an individual or family, offering full ownership and personal space. It provides a sense of extra privacy in an elaborate arena and makes it suitable for large families and groups of people who prefer airy and open-spaced houses.
Types of Standalone Buildings
As the name suggests, standalone buildings are single structures and independent in the real estate arena. These buildings are free from attached boundaries, adding to their privacy and exclusivity. For those seeking an open environment, standalone buildings are a good choice for a customised, own space that can be either rented or leased. Here’s a list of some common types of standalone buildings that can be considered when looking for a house:
- Independent Houses: Individually owned homes built on private plots, offering full control and privacy.
- Builder Floors: Low-rise residential units, with each floor typically owned or occupied by a single family.
- Standalone Villas: Premium residences designed with modern amenities, private gardens, and ample outdoor space.
- Commercial Buildings: Independent structures serving as offices, retail outlets, or business spaces.
- Mixed-Use Buildings: Properties that combine residential and commercial functions within a single standalone structure.
Advantages and Disadvantages: Standalone Building vs Gated Community
Here, we compare the two types based on four key parameters: the advantages and disadvantages of a standalone building, and the advantages and disadvantages of a gated community. Let’s compare all the pros and cons and determine which type is better suited for current times.
| Advantages of a Standalone building | Advantages of a Gated community |
| Security can be a cause of concern even with a guard present | CCTV cameras and trained guards make it more convenient. |
| Owners need to arrange a power backup and water source on their own. | Treated water facilities and backup power supplies are easily available. |
| No additional amenities. | Havel complexes inside the gated community that caters to daily needs. |
| The credentials and quality of work of the developer may be questionable. | A flat in a gated community ensures the quality of work. |
| Cose to central areas, usually constructed in city-centres | Commuting may be difficult, situated away from the central locations. |
| A flat in a standalone building is very affordable due to the lack of amenities. | Property prices in a gated community are priced 10%-40% higher than a standalone building. |
| Usually preferred by bachelors and students. | Usually preferred by families. |
Disadvantages of Gated Communities and Standalone Buildings
| Disadvantages of a Standalone building | Disadvantages of Gated communities |
| Usually lack facilities like gyms, clubs, and swimming pools. | Property prices in gated communities are significantly higher, often reaching crores for limited space |
| May not have dedicated guards or CCTV surveillance. | Shared amenities and common areas reduce personal privacy. |
| Homeowners are solely responsible for upkeep and repairs. | Monthly maintenance and society fees can be expensive. |
| Often have limited or no dedicated parking spaces. | Often situated away from city centres, making daily commutes longer. |
Pros and Cons: Standalone Buildings Vs Independent Houses
| Aspect | Standalone Buildings | Independent House |
| Ownership | Fully owned or divided floor-wise among multiple owners or tenants. | owned by a single individual or family. |
| Amenities | Limited shared amenities; may include parking or basic utilities. | Fully customisable amenities as per owner’s preferences. |
| Privacy Level | Moderate; access areas may be shared by common occupants. | High; complete privacy with no shared spaces or boundaries. |
| Maintenance | Managed by owner or shared among occupants; depends on structure use. | Fully owner-managed, allowing complete control over upkeep. |
| Cost | It is more affordable with lower initial purchase and maintenance costs. | It requires high investment thus costs higher, given amenities and facilities |
Should Home Buyers Choose a Standalone Building or a Gated Community in India?
A standalone building comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Based on the table above, you as a buyer can compare the two categories and see which option makes more sense for you. Although the advantages of a gated community may far outweigh a standalone building, India is a country where affordable housing options are always in demand. The advantage of a standalone building includes affordability. There is a significant price gap between the property prices in a standalone building and a gated community. Standalone buildings are a great option for real estate investments as they are always in demand amongst students and bachelors. The low property prices make sure that the rental income is steady and it helps in covering the expenses of the building
Tips to Buy a Standalone Building in India?
If the advantages of a standalone building, have you convinced for investing in one and you have made sure the disadvantages of a standalone building aren't that important for you, here are some experts suggested tips to follow while buying a standalone building in India:
- Check Budget: Never overspend without a plan
- Try opting for a prime location: The property price is directly proportional to land value and hence, prime locations should be preferred.
- Consider the resale value and rental rates of the area.
- Registration fees and stamp duty charges should be compared.
- Get your property insured to cover any additional cost.
Now you have all the ideas of Standalone Building vs Gated Community. There are some minor disadvantages of a standalone building. However, the affordability factor is a huge checklist in many property buyers. If you are looking for the best standalone buildings in your city, end your search with NoBroker and save huge with our zero-brokerage promise. Comment about your real estate requirements under this blog and our executive team will be in touch with you. looking to buy a Standalone Building check out our buyer plans.
How NoBroker Can Help You?
The endless list of accommodations and houses can be overwhelming when searching for a home, especially when deciding between standalone buildings and gated communities. Standalone buildings offer private space and customization, adding to ownership responsibility compared to gated communities, which administrators manage. Hence, consider your needs when choosing the one that best suits you. By partnering with NoBroker, you gain the benefits of professional guidance and a smoother journey, making your search faster and more affordable. If you are also looking for one, NoBroker shall be your next hunting partner.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Ans. A free-standing residential real estate is a standalone building, meaning the property has zero or no amenities present.
Ans. Standalone buildings have zero to nil functional amenities. This leads to fewer or no open areas around the flats. Common facilities for the residents are also not available. The lack of proper security is also a major point of concern.
Ans. A gated community has well-established amenities present at the residential complex. A major disadvantage of a gated community is the soaring price. Generally, a property in a gated community is 20-60% more expensive than a standalone building.
Ans. A gated community is a residential community with well-established amenities whereas a standalone building is a free-standing building with no to zero amenities. If you are looking for an affordable housing option, a standalone building is your go-to choice. However, if you want a comfortable residence with all functional amenities, investing in a gated community would be a smart choice. Compare the pros and cons of both categories and decide which option makes more sense to you as a homeowner.
Ans. A gated community is a residential community with well-established amenities present. As the name suggests, a gated community is an enclosed, well-maintained building with amenities being provided by the developer.
Ans. Yes, you can rent out a standalone building just like an apartment, either for a single occupancy or for a group. Depending on your preferences and usage, you can rent it as builder flats or the entire building.
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