Saturday, July 2, 2011

New Condo: Please Weigh In

Whenever I'm faced with making a big decision, I like to make a list of pros and cons to help make the process easier. I'm considering the purchase of a pre-construction two bedroom condo, and although I've made the decision WHERE I want to be, I'm debating over which suite to choose. There are several units which I'm considering, and although the layouts are all very similar, they all have pros and cons.

This is where I could use your help, dear readers. Take a look at these floorplans, consider the layout, the level, and the suite orientation, and then leave a comment or send me an email with your list of pros and cons. Tell me which suite you prefer and why you think it's the best choice. Thanks for your help!!

Suite D2
Orientation: Northeast corner
Square Footage: 874 + 41
Floor: 19th or 20th


Suite D3
Orientation: Southeast corner
Square Footage: 881 + 42
Floor: 5th or 6th


Suite D4
Orientation: Southwest corner
Square Footage: 883 + 72
Floor: 13th

8 comments:

  1. 1. Are views important to you?

    2. Do you have better views at any particular floor level?

    3. Do you like living in angled room or do you prefer rooms with 90 degree corners?

    4. Do you prefer ‘straight approach’ foyers? It is, also, a bit easier moving in and out with such foyer. Some pieces of furniture will be difficult to maneuver in tight foyers with immediate angles.

    5. Do you prefer the main living space (K, dining, living rooms) to appear more linear or boxier? Notice that ‘D2’ will only accommodate a love seat. This might be important for seating and if you like to occasionally like to lie down in your own living room.

    6. Would a larger balcony feel better? Would you use and be more comfortable with a larger balcony?

    7. Some prefer east bedrooms and waking up with the morning sun. How do you feel about that?

    8. As per #4, the west sun is particularly direct, hot, and unrelenting in the summer months. Would you be OK with that in your living and bedroom?

    After those considerations, relax, have fun, and enjoy your choice and new home!
    Anita

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  2. Thanks for such bringing up so many great points, Anita!!

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  3. My first choice would be the southwest exposure. I love the sunlight streaming through. Yes in the summer it can become warm, but in the winter it will be wonderful. As a real estate agent I can tell you a southwest exposure is condisered prime. And they have more value than a northeast. I would never suggest a northeast exposure because you will have very little direct sunlight. Toronto winters are grey enough without spending half of the day in the shade. The only time I would suggest a northeast exposure is if it is the only way you can afford a particular neighbourhood or building, and that would get you into a prime area that otherwise you may not be able to afford.

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  4. I like 4... mostly because the foyer, I'm not a big fan of the immediate, long entryway... I like to dress up a foyer and make it inviting since it is the first thing people see when they come into your house...

    That said, I should say that in my house I have a narrow entryway, that in no way, shape or form resembles a foyer... can't dress it up with a table or art, and it drives me crazy!

    Good luck with whatever option you choose!

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  5. Thanks for the comment, Britt - I also like a foyer. It's a good spot to hang a mirror for a last minute lipstick check on the way out the door. I also like having a designated spot to leave my keys when I come in the door, so I always know where I've left them.

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  6. I like D4, with the SW exposure, more square angles, and larger balcony. However, it has 2 large support pillars whereas the other units only have one...

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  7. Hi there Pam, I just found your blog and would like to give my opinion about selecting a condo unit.

    1. D2 has the bigger bedrooms and smaller living space. It may be in the same price point because it is on a higher floor (higher the floor in condos = more money)

    2. D3 has the biggest coat closet and desk space. If you need lots of storage or work from home, these might be important.

    3. D2 and D3 have short "s" shape main area, which may make them seem smaller. D4 has one longest sight line before the "s".

    4. D4 has the most square bedrooms, which will make their layouts easier, and you will get the most out of your space.

    5. D4 has a nice "entrance". I think a good entrance, no matter the size is not only functional (finding keys) but welcoming to you and guests.

    6. Sun exposure and a good size balcony are big pluses when you don't have a backyard our "out doors" to enjoy, especially in Canada where we have cold weather for so long.

    7. D4 has the laundry closet in somewhat a decent space. The other two have them at the front door.

    Good luck with your choice. If it were me and all three where in my price range I would go for D4. bigger space inside and outside. Open layout with good sight lines. Better sun exposure and on a decent floor. I wouldn't worry too much with the size of the coat closet, you have an entire second bedroom to use for storage.

    Take care,
    Lisa

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