3 Marla vs 5 Marla House — Which to Buy in Lahore?
Comparing 3 Marla and 5 Marla houses in Lahore for first-time buyers. Price difference, space, appreciation, and rental income.
By ilaan Editorial Desk
Updated 4 Jul 2026
Understanding Marla Sizes
1 Marla = 272.25 square feet. 3 Marla = 816 sqft plot (covered area typically 600-700 sqft). 5 Marla = 1,361 sqft plot (covered area typically 900-1,100 sqft). 5 Marla is 67% larger than 3 Marla.
Price Comparison: Johar Town Lahore 2026
3 Marla house: PKR 70 lakh-1.1 Cr. 5 Marla house: PKR 1.5-2.5 Cr. Price difference: PKR 80 lakh-1.4 Cr more for 5 Marla. Monthly mortgage difference: ~PKR 65,000-1,10,000 more per month.
Space Comparison
3 Marla: Ground floor (2 rooms + kitchen + bath). Can add 1-2 more floors. Suitable for couple or small family. 5 Marla: Ground + first floor typically. 4-5 bedrooms possible. More comfortable for family of 4-5.
Appreciation Comparison
Historically, 5 Marla appreciates faster in percentage terms in prime areas. 3 Marla appreciates more in affordable areas due to higher demand from budget buyers. Both have delivered 8-15% annual appreciation in Lahore over 5 years.
Rental Income
3 Marla rent: PKR 20,000-40,000/month. 5 Marla rent: PKR 45,000-90,000/month. Rental yield: both similar at 4-6% annually. 3 Marla rents more easily (larger tenant pool).
Which to Buy?
Buy 3 Marla if: budget under PKR 1 Cr, single/couple without kids, investment in affordable area for rental. Buy 5 Marla if: family of 3+, budget PKR 1.5+ Cr, staying long-term, want more appreciation potential in prime areas.
