custom built homes for co-living | invida
Let’s Create Better Custom Built Homes Together
Custom built homes can be an ideal investment strategy for both first-time and seasoned investors. Why? Because a purpose-built (i.e. vacant land with a brand new dwelling built on the block) rental can be simple, affordable, scalable and has the potential to deliver strong returns.
INVIDA partners with trusted builders to create custom built homes designed specifically for co-living. This tailored process delivers exceptional house and land projects that go beyond standard residential investments. Our innovative approach ensures higher rental returns, smarter living solutions and long-term value for Australian investors.
Affordable Entry Point
Get started on your custom built investment property with as little as $170K cash or equity.
High returns
Our custom built homes have the potential for immediate high returns, with up to $30k positive cash flow after costs.
Turnkey solution
At INVIDA, we offer a custom-designed, fully furnished co-living property that is ready for tenants.
Multi-Tenant Income
Our custom built homes are designed for multi-tenant occupancy, which allows for diversified income streams.
End-to-End Expert Team
From finance structuring to construction and property management, our team of professionals helps streamline every stage of your investment journey.
High-Demand Market
INVIDA custom built homes are situated in strong rental demand locations, helping support long-term occupancy.
Why Purpose-Built Rental Strategy Outperforms Generic Housing
What is a purpose-built rental, and how does it differ from a standard residential investment? Put simply, custom built homes are investment properties designed specifically to generate rental income from the day they are completed and handed over.
Rather than being designed for resale or owner-occupiers (like most traditional homes), purpose-built rentals are tailored to the needs of the local rental market. This helps to improve tenant retention and minimises the risk of prolonged vacancies.
It can be compared to buying a retail store specifically designed for foot traffic vs converting an existing suburban house into a shop. The house conversion may succeed, but it’s unlikely to experience the same immediate results as the custom built storefront.
To find out whether a custom built home strategy aligns with your portfolio goals, talk to the INVIDA investment team
A Tailored Solution That Maximises Your Returns
INVIDA offers tailored solutions for a range of budgets, with floor plan designs containing 4 or 5 self-contained spaces. As an end-to-end solution, our team can help you:
- Find a suitable block
- Choose your home design
- Apply for finance
- Connect with your builder
- Track the construction
- Apply for the appropriate co-living certifications
- Furnish the property
- Advertise it for rent
- Fill your property with suitable renters
- Handle the ongoing property management
Our experienced team is on hand to guide you every step of the way. This makes investing in a location that you don’t live in very simple and straightforward. It allows you to invest your savings knowing that you’re getting the best possible return.
To learn more about our end-to-end service, please watch the free webinar by clicking below.
High-Growth Areas with Booming
Rental Markets
When you build with INVIDA, we’ve already done the hard work and due diligence for you. Our team is committed to sourcing land in areas with:
- Strong local economies
- Major infrastructure investments
- Thriving job markets
- High demand for rental accommodation
We also focus on locations where capital growth is forecast to be strong, ensuring your investment performs well both now and long into the future.
Smart Floor Plans with Practical Finishes
This is not an ordinary home, but it is an extraordinary floorplan! That’s the best way to describe an INVIDA co-living home. Our custom built homes are carefully designed with co-living in mind, to help improve long-term tenant satisfaction.
Each private ‘room’ is really its own self-contained space, with a kitchenette and ensuite, as well as a place to sleep, work and relax.
We source modern, practical fixtures and finishes that withstand rental wear and tear and reduce maintenance costs. Common areas are designed to be heavily used by multiple occupants, minimising bottlenecks in shared spaces.
Positive Cash Flow from Day 1
INVIDA is an ideal alternative for investors who are frustrated with rising interest rates and minuscule or even negative returns.
Because when you go into the red every month just to hold your property, you can’t grow your portfolio quickly. Your mortgage serviceability takes a nosedive, and you’re stuck playing the waiting game until your equity increases and you can refinance.
INVIDA renovations and custom builds experience average returns of 7-11% gross positive cash flow within 30 to 40 working days from starting on the site So as soon as your property is leased and occupied, you can start working towards your next investment.
Communal Kitchens, Laundries and Outdoor Entertaining
In addition to the private room each renter enjoys, communal open plan kitchens, laundries and outdoor entertaining areas are included in INVIDA custom built homes. These provide a larger space for residents to cook, clean and entertain in, when needed. These larger communal areas also help to maintain a traditional floor plan that appeals to a wider market at resale time.
Expert Management = Low Vacancy
Truly a turnkey solution, each INVIDA custom built property is handed over fully furnished and professionally styled. This includes everything from appliances, beds and lounges right down to the kitchenware, pillows, rugs, cushions, plants and artwork.
Our expert management team will handle all the advertising and work hard to find the best mix of residents for your property. This process helps to ensure you maximise your returns, no matter how far away from the property you live.
INVIDA: Expanding the Possibilities of Custom Built Homes for Co-Living in Australia
As the Australian property market evolves, custom-built homes expressly designed for co-living present an innovative and lucrative investment opportunity. These combine affordability, flexibility and modern shared living.
This makes co-living developments attractive to young professionals, students and those looking for cost-effective housing options. Investors, on the other hand, can benefit from higher rental yields, diversified revenue streams and growing market demand. Let us show you the various aspects of custom-built co-living investments – from design options to financing and government regulations.
What is a Custom Build for Co-Living?
Many Australian homebuyers think of “custom built” as something home upgraders do when planning their forever home. This may include things like:
- A certain number of bedrooms to suit the size of their family
- A backyard that is set up for the preferences of the owners
- A kitchen that is simplified or top of the range, depending on their skill set
- Personalised inclusions based on their lifestyle
This style of customisation is great for the original owners but may be less desirable for any future occupiers.
In contrast, custom built homes by INVIDA are purpose-designed properties that are tailored towards investment, not an owner-occupier lifestyle. In particular, INVIDA specialise in creating customised co-living properties.
Co-living homes are properties specifically designed to accommodate multiple tenants, offering private bedrooms alongside shared living spaces such as kitchens, workspaces and recreational areas.
Unlike traditional shared housing, these properties integrate smart design, sustainability and tenant-friendly lease structures to create a high-demand rental environment. This modern approach to shared housing ensures long-term profitability for investors while addressing housing affordability challenges in Australian cities.
Co-Living Property Models & Possibilities
Co-living developments can take various forms depending on investment goals and tenant needs. Below are the most common models adopted in Australia:
Custom Build for Investment (High-Yield Rental Model)
A purpose-built co-living home provides a higher return on investment (ROI) by allowing multiple tenants to contribute to rental income. Instead of relying on a single leaseholder, this model ensures diversified income streams and reduced vacancy risks. Well-located co-living properties in high-demand areas, such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, can generate rental yields that outperform traditional residential properties.
Shared Ownership & Co-Investment Models
A shared ownership model allows multiple investors to co-own a co-living property, reducing financial risk and enabling access to premium locations. This approach is particularly useful for investors who want to enter the market without bearing the full cost of property development. Legal structures such as property trusts or co-investment agreements ensure smooth collaboration between co-owners.
Owner-Occupied + Rental Hybrid Model
For homeowners looking to offset mortgage costs, a co-living setup enables them to live in the property while renting out additional rooms. This hybrid model maximises the use of space, provides consistent rental income and supports flexible living arrangements.
The Problem with the Australian Rental Market
In Australia, there is now a growing demand for rental properties with a multi-tenant layout. Why has this become a more popular option for both investors and tenants?
Traditionally, rental properties could be defined in mainly two categories:
- Standard single-family home
- Share homes
For a growing number of tenants, this presents an issue. With rents skyrocketing across the country and the average household size shrinking, many simply can’t afford to rent a traditional 3-bedroom home. But these same tenants may be resistant to the idea of a share house with common bathrooms and ill-equipped common areas.
Why Multi-Tenant Layout Properties Are Driving Investor Demand
In contrast, co-living offers an ideal mix of cost efficiency and privacy. When a co-living property offers reduced rental costs, access to shared amenities and a desirable location, many find this to be a workable solution.
For investors, co-living properties offer a higher rent-per-square-metre efficiency and the prospect of diversified rental income.
For example, a traditional 4-bedroom house with 1 tenant provides just 1 income stream. If the tenant vacates the property, that stream instantly dries up. In a multi-tenant layout property, an investor may have 4 or 5 tenants delivering multiple income streams. If 1 tenant leaves, the investor continues to receive rent from the remaining tenants.
High-Density Residential Design and Its Role in Co-Living
Many Australian investors hear “high-density residential design” and immediately envision apartments. And while this may be true for inner-city developments, in a suburban context it often refers to custom built properties with multiple occupants.
Why is High-Density Residential Design Important?
As metro areas continue to expand, there is increasing land scarcity. This is particularly true in high-demand areas adjacent to state capitals, such as Brisbane and Melbourne.
High-density residential design allows for more people to live in these sought-after areas. But if a high-density development is poorly designed, the results can be unappealing to prospective tenants.
Keys to a Successful High-Density Residential Design
The following design considerations are of utmost importance when planning a co-living development:
- The right mix of shared vs private zones
- Adequate soundproofing between rooms
- Compliance with local council regulations
Ultimately, the goal is to create compact, efficient and socially functional spaces that can serve as a long-term home environment for a diverse mix of people.
At INVIDA, our expert design team can help to ensure your co-living project is design compliant, functional and appealing for prospective tenants.
To find out more, book a strategy call today.
Customisation & Design Options for Co-living Custom Built Homes
Customisation & Design Options for Co-living Custom Built Homes
Custom-built co-living homes focus on maximising space efficiency and tenant comfort. Below are key design considerations and ideas you might want to consider for your own custom built homes made specifically for co-living investing:
Below are some key design considerations and options to explore when planning your own co-living custom built homes investment:
Flexible Floor Plans
Flexible floor plans are central to successful co-living design because they allow a single dwelling to function more like a small-scale residential community rather than a traditional home.
We aim to optimise the layout by:
- Creating private bedroom zones with ensuite or semi-ensuite options.
- Designing shared kitchen, living and dining areas that encourage usability without overcrowding.
- Ensuring circulation and separation between private and communal spaces to improve liveability.
Smart Home & Technology Integration
Integrating smart systems can not only improve convenience and security for tenants but also help landlords streamline management.
Common inclusions may include:
- Smart locks and keyless entry systems for simplified tenant access.
- High-speed, property-wide WiFi infrastructure designed for multiple occupants.
- Energy-efficient appliances and monitoring systems to help reduce ongoing utility costs.
Luxury vs. Budget-Friendly Designs
Whether the goal is a premium or a cost-efficient investment, the design approach is always tailored to optimise both usability and financial performance. INVIDA provides end-to-end project management to guide these decisions, including:
- Selecting durable, low-maintenance finishes suited to high-occupancy living.
- Identifying where upgraded features may improve rental appeal and tenant retention.
- Structuring design choices around target rental demographics and local market demand.
Things to Consider Before Investing in Co-living Custom Built Houses
Regulations & Compliance
Successfully navigating Australia’s legal landscape is crucial for co-living investors. Some key considerations include:
Before launching into a co-living custom-built home investment, it’s essential to consider key factors that impact long-term success. From market demand to design flexibility to government regulations and so on, making informed choices can maximise your returns and future-proof your investment.
Before launching into a co-living custom-built home investment, it’s essential to consider key factors that impact long-term success. From market demand to design flexibility to government regulations and so on, making informed choices can maximise your returns and future-proof your investment.
Before launching into a co-living custom built homes investment, it’s essential to consider key factors that impact long-term success. From market demand to design flexibility to government regulations and so on, making informed choices can maximise your returns and future-proof your investment.
Planning & Zoning Laws
Tenant Rights & Lease Structures
Legal Considerations for Shared Ownership
Co-investment agreements should outline financial contributions, property management responsibilities and exit strategies for co-owners.
Get Started Investing with INVIDA Custom Built Homes
Are you interested in owning custom built homes that have been optimised for co-living? Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with INVIDA on this kind of project:
Expert Consultation
Building a successful co-living home starts with careful planning. Our team works with you to assess the best approach for designing a high-performing co-living investment.
We analyse market demand, identify ideal locations and ensure your project aligns with local council regulations. Our consultation process provides you with clear insights and a strategic roadmap to maximise rental returns and long-term value.
Design and Planning
Our well-designed, custom built homes will seamlessly balance privacy with shared living spaces. At INVIDA, we collaborate with experienced builders and architects to create purpose-built layouts that optimise space and functionality.
From private ensuites to communal lounges, we ensure every detail enhances the tenant experience. We also incorporate modern features such as high-speed internet, energy-efficient appliances and contemporary kitchens – meeting both tenant expectations and building compliance requirements.
Project Management
Bringing a co-living custom built home to life requires seamless execution. INVIDA provides end-to-end project management, ensuring your build stays on track from concept to completion.
We coordinate with builders, oversee construction timelines and manage quality control, delivering a turnkey co-living property that’s ready for tenants. Our goal is to create high-yield investment properties designed for long-term success.
FAQs About Custom Built Homes
A multi-tenant layout is designed to accommodate multiple individual tenants within a single dwelling. Each tenant will typically have their own private bedroom, ensuite bathroom and kitchenette, as well as access to shared kitchen, laundry and living spaces. This kind of investment approach allows for multiple income streams from a single property.
A duplex is two separate, self-contained homes built on the same block. In an investment situation, each side of the duplex would be leased out to a different tenant, creating a dual-income stream.
While both of these setups help with diversifying rental income, multi-tenant layouts may offer greater returns by maximising the number of tenancies in a single property.
INVIDA’s custom built homes are specifically designed with multi-tenant layouts in mind, balancing privacy, functionality and tenant appeal to support strong rental demand.
A purpose-built rental can be ideal for first-time investors, particularly those looking for a more structured and hands-off approach to property investing. Because these properties are designed specifically for rental performance, they can remove a lot of the guesswork involved in modifying or repurposing a standard home.
However, like any investment, it’s important to consider all the relevant factors before making a decision. This includes things such as budget, borrowing capacity, location and long-term goals. Outcomes can vary depending on market conditions and individual circumstances.
INVIDA supports investors at all stages, including first-time buyers, by providing guidance on feasibility, finance, design and property management—helping simplify what can otherwise be a complex process.
Yes, INVIDA provides end-to-end support across both finance and construction as part of our integrated investment model.
This includes access to mortgage brokers who can assist with structuring finance, as well as builders and project managers who oversee the design and construction of custom built homes. INVIDA also coordinates with solicitors, buyers’ agents and property managers to ensure each stage of the process is completed as smoothly as possible.
By bringing all these key services together, INVIDA helps streamline the journey from initial concept through to a completed, tenant-ready investment property.