In addition to end users and those looking to sell their existing properties, I work intimately with a lot of investors – and many of those investors are PreCon purchasers. So this month I would like to take the opportunity to discuss, hands down one of the most popular questions I get regarding Condos – how do I select a floor plan? They are so confusing to look at and how can I imagine the space in real time from a piece of paper?
Now to be very clear, an effective floor plan and one that flows is priceless. On the flip side, a floor plan that is awkward, odd or simply does not flow can be a big mistake to inherit. The importance of a floor plan is key for not only a condo (which usually comes with the added challenge of limited space) but equally for homes also.
If you are buying a property in the Preconstruction phase of a project, you will have no choice but to select your purchase from a floor plan. So here are a few general rules to help guide you.
- Look to try and get natural light or windows in the principal rooms of your unit (Kitchen, Living, Dining, Master Bedroom).
- Avoid very narrow hallways or slanted walls that can be difficult to furnish and potentially even more difficult for resale in the future.
- If possible, look to have a separate kitchen dining space to your living room space, this can be an issue with micro or smaller units as they share this space.
- The higher the ceiling height and the more the natural light exposure the better; these are often the most frequent requests from buyers.
- Pay careful attention to the Den (if there is one), if it is too small, an awkward shape, tucked away in an odd part of the unit or does not have the ability to be used functionally as an office or small bedroom then be critical of its value for you.