Learn 3 ways to adjust the unit mix of a building to estimate unit counts based on your requirements
What is Unit Mix?
The unit mix of a residential building refers to the assortment and distribution of different types and sizes of units within the property.

Real estate developers carefully analyze market trends and demographics to determine the optimal mix that aligns with their objectives and maximizes the success of the development project. It's a crucial consideration for real estate developers for several reasons:
- Market Demand and Target Audience: Understanding the demographics and preferences of the target market is essential. A diverse unit mix allows developers to cater to various segments of the population, such as young professionals, families, empty nesters, or retirees. By offering a range of unit types, developers can appeal to a broader audience and maximize occupancy rates.
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💡 Use Demographics by Local Logic to view demographics insights in the USA and Canada!
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- Optimizing Revenue: Different types of units command different rental or sale prices. By carefully designing the unit mix to include a balance of smaller and larger units, developers can optimize revenue potential. This involves analyzing market trends, assessing demand for various unit sizes, and pricing strategies accordingly.
- Mitigating Risk: Diversifying the unit mix helps mitigate risks associated with fluctuations in market demand. For example, if there's a downturn in the market for larger luxury apartments, having a mix that includes smaller, more affordable units can help maintain steady occupancy levels and rental income.
- Meeting Zoning and Regulatory Requirements: Local zoning regulations and planning guidelines often dictate the composition of residential developments, including requirements for affordable housing units, accessibility features, or minimum unit sizes. Developers must ensure compliance with these regulations when determining the unit mix.
- Enhancing Marketability and Competitiveness: Offering a diverse unit mix can enhance the marketability and competitiveness of a residential development. Providing amenities such as studios for young professionals, two-bedroom units for families, or penthouses for affluent buyers enhances the appeal of the property and attracts a wider range of potential tenants or buyers.
- Long-term Sustainability: A well-balanced unit mix contributes to the long-term sustainability and desirability of a residential development. It creates a vibrant and dynamic community with residents from different backgrounds and life stages, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community engagement.
Define the Unit Mix in Giraffe
There are 3 main ways to define the target unit mix in Giraffe:
- Within the Usage
- Within the Apartment Algorithm
- By Overriding the Unit Count property
Usage
The Residential usages (like Residential and Garden) include Unit Mix as a configurable property. You set the unit mix using this property in the Usage editor.
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💡 Learn more:
Usages
Unit Mix
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