When looking for short- or long-term housing in the UK, you could come across two phrases that sound the same but are actually very different: condos and flats. Both offer somewhere to live, usually in buildings with more than one unit. However, their ownership, management, facilities, and tenant experience are very different.
We at MyLondonHop specialize in high-end short-term rental flats in Central London. Guests and landlords often ask us what the difference is between these two types of properties. This book makes the distinctions apparent and easy to understand, which will help you make better judgments about where to live or invest.
1. Understanding the Basics
What is an Apartment?
An apartment is a self-contained living space in a larger structure that is owned and maintained by one landlord or property management business. All renters or guests rent their flats from the same owner, who sets the rules and terms for renting them.
What is a Condo (Condominium)?
A condo, which stands for “condominium,” is also a self-contained living space in a bigger building. But the most important thing that sets them apart is that each unit is owned by a private person. Tenants rent directly from the owner, not from the building’s administration.
2. Ownership Structure: The Core Difference
This is the most significant distinction:
Apartment Ownership
- The entire building is owned by one landlord or one company.
- All units follow the same pricing model and rental policies.
- Tenants deal with management staff, not private owners.
Condo Ownership
- An individual investor or homeowner owns each condo unit.
- Rules and rental terms may vary between units.
- Tenants communicate with the private owner or their chosen agent.
In short:
Condos = individually owned homes.
Apartments = collectively owned by a single entity.
3. Management & Maintenance Differences
How Apartments Are Managed
Apartment buildings usually have:
- A professional building management team
- Standardised maintenance procedures
- Set policies for utilities, pets, noise, and repairs
Repairs are predictable and tend to be handled quickly because everything is streamlined under one system.
How Condos Are Managed
Since condos are privately owned:
- Maintenance depends on the individual owner
- Quality of furnishings, appliances, and repairs may vary.
- The building may still have a Homeowners Association (HOA) responsible for common areas.
This means the tenant or guest experience can differ from unit to unit within the same building.
4. Differences in Features, Amenities & Design
This is where condos often stand out.
Apartment Features
Most apartments offer:
- Basic, functional layouts
- Standard fixtures across all units
- Uniform interiors
- Limited customisations
The focus is on consistency and affordability.
Condo Features
Condos usually feature:
- Personalised interior design
- Premium finishes chosen by the owner
- Upgraded appliances
- Tailored furnishing and décor
Two condos in the same building may look completely different based on the owner’s taste.
5. Rental Flexibility: Long-term vs Short-term Stays
Apartments
- Typically rented on long-term tenancy agreements (6–12 months)
- Less flexibility for short stays
- Limited customisation allowed for tenants.
Condos
- More flexible rental options
- Suitable for short-term stays, Airbnb-style rentals, and corporate lets
- Owners can choose how frequently they rent out their unit.
Because of this flexibility, condos are often the best choice in places with many tourists. This makes them perfect for platforms and partners like MyLondonHop, who offer short-term luxury accommodations in Central London.
6. Cost Differences: Rent, Fees & Deposits
Apartment Costs
- Rent is usually standardised across units.
- Fees such as deposits and utility charges follow a consistent policy.
- Fewer surprise costs
Condo Costs
- Rent varies depending on:
- Owner’s pricing
- Upgrades or luxury features
- Market demand
- Some condos may include:
- HOA fees
- Premium amenities
- Furnished rental charges
Overall, condos can be more expensive but offer a more customised, home-like experience.
7. Amenities: What You Can Expect
Common Apartment Amenities
- Basic gym
- Parking area
- Laundry facilities
- Security services
Typical Condo Amenities
Condo buildings, especially in modern London developments, often offer more upscale amenities such as:
- Concierge service
- Private gyms
- Rooftop lounges
- Swimming pools
- Co-working spaces
- Smart home integrations
These features depend largely on the building and the owner’s investment in upgrades.
8. Who Should Choose an Apartment?
An apartment is ideal for:
- Long-term tenants
- Students
- Workers seeking affordability
- Those wanting predictable rent and uniform living conditions
- People who prefer dealing with a professional management company
If consistency and Stability matter most, apartments are a strong choice.
9. Who Should Choose a Condo?
A condo is perfect for:
- Travellers looking for short-term luxury stays
- Business travellers seeking premium accommodation
- Families want a “home-like” feel with high-end features.
- Guests who prefer personalised interiors
- Tenants are open to more flexibility.
This is exactly why most MyLondonHop accommodation options are designed like modern, high-quality condo-style, comfort, and premium living all in one.
10. Which Is Better in the UK?
In the UK, the term “condo” is not as commonly used as it is in the US. Most similar properties here are marketed as flats or serviced apartments. However, the concept remains the same:
- Condos = privately owned flats
- Apartments = rented units from one landlord
For short-term luxury living in London, condo-style accommodation (professionally managed by teams like MyLondonHop offers the best mix of flexibility, comfort, and premium design.
Final Thoughts: Condo vs
Apartment—What’s Right for You?
Both condos and apartments serve residential needs, but their differences in ownership, amenities, cost, and flexibility make them suitable for different lifestyles.
Choose an apartment if you want:
✔ Stability
✔ Predictable rental terms
✔ Professional management
Choose a condo if you prefer:
✔ Personalised, high-end interiors
✔ Flexible rental options
✔ More amenities
✔ A home-like environment
At MyLondonHop, we specialise in providing beautifully furnished, condo-style short-term rental apartments across Central London. Whether you’re a traveller or a landlord, our team ensures seamless management, premium interiors, and a 5-star guest experience.