Luxury city living has been altered, and penthouses now represent the apex of exclusivity and elegance. From breathtaking skyline views, private decks, and high-end amenities, penthouses offer an upscale lifestyle appealing to the high-end homebuyer. But what is a penthouse anyway, and how does a penthouse differ from an ordinary apartment?
This guide discusses the definition of a penthouse, its pros and cons, and will assist you in deciding whether the purchase of a penthouse building is the right decision for you.
What is a Penthouse?
Penthouses are among the most lavish apartments that are found at the very top of a tower. Unlike the normal apartments, penthouses have large floor plans and access to terraces which are private and exclusive. They also have panoramic views and high standard amenities.
Penthouse Meaning & Origin
The term penthouse has evolved from the French apentis, meaning an annex or an attached house. Later on, a penthouse referred to the highest and the most luxurious floor of a skyscraper.
Key Features of a Penthouse Building
Exclusive Top-Floor Location: Provides privacy and spectacular views.
Spacey Interiors: Larger Floor Area than Conventional Apartments.
Alfresco, Private: Includes Balconies, Gardens, and Lounge Areas.
Very High-Quality Features and Amenities: Gourmet Finishes, Smart Home Automation, Concierge Services.
More Expansive and Aristocratic: A Mark of Luxury Property.
Advantages & Disadvantages of a Penthouse
Advantages
Disadvantages
Unmatched City Views—World-class city views from an open environment.
Higher Costs-—More expensive than normal apartments and typically have high location fees.
Exclusive Privacy—On the top floor providing seclusion and peace.
Extreme Weather Exposure—More exposed to heat, cold, and wind due to having a rooftop position.
Spacious Layouts—Usually bigger than other units and follow a very modern design.
High Maintenance Costs— More space and premium amenities demand more headaches in maintenance.
Luxury Features—Private balconies, roof gardens, and VIP elevators.
Limited Supply—Limited units for penthouses in each building, making them harder to find.
Great Resale Value—The property is premium, hence a good investment.
Access Problems-—Relies solely on elevators to access a home, which could be a problem in times of power outages.
Penthouse vs. Apartment: Key Differences
Feature
Penthouse
Regular Apartment
Location
Topmost floor of a high-rise building
Located on any floor within the building
Space & Layout
Larger, open layouts with private outdoor areas
Standard layouts with no private terraces
Amenities
High-end features, rooftop access, and concierge services
Common shared amenities like gym, pool, and clubhouse
Privacy
More secluded with fewer neighbors
Shared corridors and common areas with multiple units
Cost
Premium pricing due to exclusivity
Comparatively lower cost
Resale Value
Higher appreciation potential
Moderate resale value based on market demand
How Much Does a Penthouse Cost in India?
Penthouses are highly sought after in metropolitan cities, where luxury real estate is in high demand. The price of a penthouse depends on the city, location, project, and available amenities.
Here’s a breakdown of penthouse prices in major Indian cities:
City
Price Range
Delhi NCR
₹5-12 crore
Mumbai
₹10-60 crore
Bangalore
₹2-7 crore
Pune
₹6-13 crore
Chennai
₹4-6 crore
Kolkata
₹3-14 crore
Ahmedabad
₹2-11 crore
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on size, location, and developer specifications.
Preferential Location Charges on Penthouses
Since penthouses are exclusive and offer panoramic views, they are subject to Preferential Location Charges (PLC).
PLC can add ₹100 or more per square foot to the overall cost.
The higher the floor, the higher the PLC, making penthouses significantly more expensive than regular apartments.
Problems with Penthouses: What to Consider Before Buying
While penthouses offer luxury, there are certain challenges potential buyers must be aware of:
1. Weather Extremes & Temperature Control
Penthouses are more exposed to direct sunlight, rain, and wind.
Higher cooling & heating costs due to lack of upper-floor insulation.
2. Security & Privacy Risks
While penthouses provide seclusion, they may be more vulnerable to break-ins due to rooftop access points.
3. Maintenance & Repair Costs
Roof leakage, elevator dependency, and larger cleaning areas add to upkeep expenses.
4. Accessibility Challenges
In case of elevator failures, accessing the penthouse can be difficult.
5. Resale Liquidity
Fewer buyers in the market for ultra-luxury properties, making resale less liquid than mid-range apartments.
Conclusion: Is a Penthouse Worth It?
A penthouse is the ultimate symbol of luxury living, offering exclusive amenities, stunning views, and unparalleled privacy. However, it comes with higher costs, maintenance responsibilities, and accessibility challenges.
If you prioritize prestige, space, and breathtaking views, investing in a penthouse could be a dream come true. But if you seek affordability and practicality, a regular apartment might be a better fit.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and long-term investment goals.
What Is A Penthouse And How Popular Are They In India? FAQs:
1. On which floor are penthouses located?
A penthouse is a house located on the top-most floor of a residential or commercial building.
2. Do penthouses have multiple floors?
It is not necessary for all penthouses to have multiple levels or floors, however, most of the newly-built penthouse residential properties do offer access to a lower floor and an upper level along with a terrace or an outdoor balcony area.
3. Is buying a penthouse in India a good form of investment?
Buying a penthouse could prove to be one of the most fruitful and viable long-term investments, especially in tier 1 and tier 2 cities of India. This is because these cities have only recently seen a boom in the luxurious real estate segment and the graph only seems to show an upward rise!
4. How many people can live in a penthouse?
Most penthouses usually have the capacity to hold at least 5-8 people due to the multiple bedroom format (usually 4 BHK). This is also why it is typically the best residential option for joint families living under the same roof; not only do penthouses offer more open space for a congested household but also lots of private space.
5. Why are penthouse maintenance charges so high?
Maintenance costs by most societies are ideally calculated by using the per square feet method that charges a fixed rate of maintenance per square feet of the area of an apartment. Since penthouses are huge in size, the total area increases and so does the maintenance cost.
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Ritika Singh
Ritika Singh is a dedicated content writer with over two years of experience crafting engaging articles and blogs across various niches. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Ritika has developed a strong portfolio of work that resonates with diverse audiences.
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