ᐅ 2 Existing Properties to Choose From – Your Assessment and Advice?

Created on: 26 Jul 2018 10:49
J
JackyBauer
J
JackyBauer
26 Jul 2018 10:49
Hello,

we have now decided against building a house because, unexpectedly, we are expecting a child and want to move into our own home before the birth.

House 1:
- built in 2001
- larger plot than House 2
- same living area
- two parking spaces in front of the garage
- house at the end of a dead-end street (quiet), no turning circle, so some maneuvering is needed when entering and exiting
- overall more spacious than House 2
- no blinds or shutters
- energy rating C
- brick facade
- garden not overlooked

House 2:
- built in 2009
- smaller garden, partially overlooked from three sides
- enough parking spaces (fits 4 vehicles comfortably)
- energy rating A
- rendered facade
- also in a dead-end street but shaped like a T, with more houses and semi-detached homes in the neighborhood, mostly rented, not owner-occupied

We like both houses. My only concern about House 2 is the tenants in the neighboring homes. On the left side there is a three-family building and on the right two semi-detached houses (rented). Overall, you can tell the tenants don’t take as much care as owners (front gardens).

Advantages of tenants:
- if there are troublemakers, they will eventually move away
- younger neighbors, ideal for us as a family

Disadvantages:
- noise level?
- property value in 20 years?!

What are your thoughts and experiences? Anything I might have forgotten to consider?
C
cschiko
26 Jul 2018 11:14
Well, for me, one question would make quite a difference:

- Size of the plots? Is the size of the plot for House 2 sufficient for you, or would you prefer a larger one like House 1, which is also less visible from outside? That would be a clear advantage for me, especially if you like spending a lot of time outdoors.

Concerns about tenants and owners are somewhat relevant since these can change over time. However, based on the information provided, no definitive conclusion can be drawn.
J
JackyBauer
26 Jul 2018 11:29
What would you like to know?

House 1: 600 sqm (6,458 sq ft)
The house is located relatively close to the property boundary, so there is one parking space in front of the garage and another one by the main entrance. With a bit of effort, a visitor could still park there, but that would be it. On the other hand, the house offers a lot of space, a good layout, and a garden that is large enough for us, surrounded by mature hedges about 3–4 m (10–13 ft) high.

House 2: 490 sqm (5,271 sq ft)
The garden is smaller but still sufficiently large for us. Everything basically fits here, except for potential neighbors who happen not to be owners. I have mixed feelings about that. On one hand, tenants keep to themselves more, don't get involved in every neighborhood fuss, and just live their own lives, whereas long-established neighbors (owners) try to involve you at every opportunity.
Climbee26 Jul 2018 11:39
I think you should reconsider your biases regarding tenants and owners...
T
Tego12
26 Jul 2018 11:59
After your last post, I would choose House 2. The garden is sufficient for you (I personally think 500 sqm (5,382 sqft) is a nice size; I’m not a fan of huge plots), and the house is newer with significantly better energy efficiency. Especially for a young family, having a younger neighborhood is much nicer than being surrounded only by "older people," especially for the children!
B
Buchweizen
26 Jul 2018 13:21
I would not choose my house based on how many visitor parking spaces are available directly in front of it.