When buying presale, evaluate the floorplan first

By Cameron McNeill
April 06, 2018

With presale condos on the rise, many developers are making a significant investment in the presentation centre experience to ensure people receive the information they need to make a buying decision. While you may not be able to physically walk through your future space, being savvy about your needs and scouting a floorplan will help.

Floorplans for smaller spaces

Trends in floorplans can vary, with each new development catering to different homebuyers. During your search, you may find developments in trendy areas such as Mount Pleasant featuring smaller units to attract first-time buyers. Floorplans in these developments are often open concepts – with the purchasers not wanting to pay for extra square footage in dead corners where their money could be used elsewhere. For those entering the housing market or families moving up, efficient floorplans are key to ensuring every square inch of footage is used.

Floorplans for downsizers

In neighbourhoods such as Kerrisdale, which attracts a high number of downsizers, efforts are taken to make the floorplan reflect their former dwelling. If you are downsizing but anxious about living in a smaller space, there are options that offer amenities like private storage units, private garages and large outdoor spaces.

Consider a new home's floorplan

Study the floorplan and conduct a “walkthrough” with the on-site sales representative to help interpret the home’s design, functionality and flow. Things to consider include entry closet by the front door, strategically placed storage, easy access to washer and dryer, positioning of pantry and kitchen appliances, bedroom placement and patio locale. Ask about the ceiling height and orientation of the desired unit; do you prefer morning or afternoon sun, or perhaps no direct sun exposure.

Consider a new home's floorplate

After aligning your preferred neighbourhood with a floorplan that works for you and your family, review the building’s floor plate. This main plan will show the location of the unit in relation to others on the floor. Be sure to inquire about the location of elevators, stairs, garbage and recycling room, parking, bike and storage facilities and amenities.

Buying a new home sight unseen can be a little unnerving, which makes it important to work with the project’s sales representative and your realtor to ask the right questions and understand the floorplan. This will go a long way towards helping you find a space you feel truly comfortable in.

About Cameron McNeill

Cameron McNeill is co-president of MLA Canada, a comprehensive real estate service provider in Canada. Partnering with residential developers, MLA Canada offers an unmatched level of expertise in advisory services, market intelligence, project marketing, sales, customer care and administration.

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