The Great Comparison: Apartment vs. Detached Living On Curacao

by Pamela Núñez on June 17, 2025

You dream of a home in Curaçao, but the choice between an apartment or a detached house is proving more difficult than thought. Both types of housing have their own charm and advantages. In the great comparison Moret Real Estate helps you on your way by comparing six important points. That way, you’ll quickly discover what best suits your needs, lifestyle and plans on the island.

1. Purchase Price & Fixed Charges

Apartments on Curaçao are generally more affordable than detached homes, especially in popular locations such as Jan Thiel or Blue Bay. In addition to the purchase price, with apartments you often pay a monthly VvE contribution for maintenance, security and common facilities, among other things.

Detached homes are usually more expensive and have no CoE fees, unless they are in a gated community. In that case, monthly contributions may still apply, such as for security, maintenance of common roads, lighting, landscaping or other shared facilities. You have more freedom, but are also responsible for the maintenance and management of your own property.

2. Maintenance and Convenience

If you choose an apartment, you often choose convenience. Many practical matters, such as the maintenance of garden, swimming pool or common areas, are arranged centrally. You pay a monthly fee for this, but don’t have to worry about anything else.

With a detached home, there’s more to it. You decide how everything is maintained, but you also bear full responsibility. So you are responsible for arranging and carrying out maintenance. If you live in a gated community, there are sometimes joint costs for things like security or grounds maintenance.

3. Privacy and Space

Privacy is a major advantage of detached living. You have no immediate neighbors above or beside you and can fully enjoy a private garden, porch or patio. Especially on Curaçao, where outdoor living is central, this is a decisive factor for many people.

In an apartment, space is more limited and you often share walls, hallways or even amenities. That need not be a problem, especially in well-managed complexes, but it offers less freedom than owning your own home on a spacious lot.

4. Rental Potential and Investment

Apartments are popular among tourists and expats and lend themselves well to short- or medium-term rentals. Especially if they are located in tourist areas with amenities such as a swimming pool, beach access or restaurants, they are attractive as investments.

Detached houses are more suitable for long-term rental or as a luxury vacation villa. Rental income is often higher, but management requires more organization, especially if you don’t live on the island yourself.

The great comparison shows that the type of home you choose directly affects how you use your investment.

5. Location choice

Apartments are often in prime locations, such as by the sea or close to the nightlife. Think of areas like Mambo Beach, Jan Thiel and Piscadera. You live close to stores, restaurants and recreation.

Detached houses are more widely spread across the island and are more often located in residential areas such as Mahaai, Villapark Zuurzak or Grote Berg. These locations offer more tranquility and living space, but are sometimes a bit farther from tourist hotspots.

6. Security and Safety.

Many apartments are located in secure resorts or complexes with 24/7 security, barriers and camera surveillance. This makes you feel safe, especially if you don’t live there permanently.

Detached homes vary widely by neighborhood. Some neighborhoods are gated or have neighborhood guards, but in others you are responsible for security yourself. Consider fencing, lighting, alarm systems and dogs.

As you can see in the great comparison, the choice between apartment and detached living is not about right or wrong, but about what suits your living needs, stage of life and plans in Curacao.

Concluding: Finding Your Dream Home in Curaçao

Whether you choose the convenience and location of an apartment, or the freedom and space of a detached home. In the end, it’s all about what best suits your lifestyle and future plans in Curaçao.

The great comparison shows where the main differences are, but making the right choice remains personal. At Moret Real Estate we listen to your wishes and actively work with you to find the home that really suits you.

Do you dream of living in Curacao? Feel free to contact us for an informal talk or a personal tour. Your new home starts with an informed choice.