The position of a home - the exact positioning - should always be a key factor when marketing or evaluating whether to buy or rent a property. Over the past few weeks I have been spending lots of time looking at property with the eyes of a buyer to REALLY think about everything one should consider when buying. Not only is the helpful when working with buyers, but it's also super-useful to look at a property we will market with the eyes of a buyer to highlight attributes that may be super-important yet often ignored or not broadcast loudly enough.
It may be true that all homes in the same neighborhood share the exact same location, but its not true when it comes to positioning. That home on the back cul de sac that faces an attractive park may feel entirely different to the home on the neighborhood entrance, just off a busy street....even though they both have the identical finishes and architecture. Here are some thoughts on POSITIONING:
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Determine the street address to understand the neighborhood. What is close by? What is walkable within minutes? How long will it take to drive to get to the things you need to live comfortably? How would this location function for day-to-day life? Imagine waking up and run through the course of your entire day to imagine your life hour-by-hour in this area.
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Setting within a block: where exactly is the property positioned within the block. What exists on either side? How 'settled' is the block? Is there potential for future construction/renovation and what is the legal extent? Does the block have a potential upside?
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The street: On what side of the street is the property and how does this impact quality of life, views, future neighboring buildings? On a steep incline is it better to enter the property from above, or enter from below?
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What direction does the property and structure face? Where does the sun rise and set? How will light impact this property?
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If a condominium, where is it located within the building? What is above, below and on either side of the unit? What does the unit face/look out at. What might this unit be exposed to from neighboring apartments/buildings/empty lots/streets noise- and light-wise?
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What direction do the rooms face and where are they positioned in relation to one another, in relation to light and views, a pool, a tennis court (could be noisy), a street, a service alley, and in relation to neighboring structures/pools/courts/play areas?
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When it comes to property amenities, how are they positioned? How easily are they accessed? Do you see/hear them from the living space? From bedrooms?
Just like a fine painting, all real estate requires really close observation to FULLY understand its positives and negatives. No property is perfect: matching the needs of a buyer/renter to an owner/seller is the key. For some a sun-flooded living room is heaven, and for others it is pure hell.
If you're considering buying or selling a home in today's market, let's chat about how positioning can get you the best deal on the purchase of a new home or the sale of an existing one.
