What to Look for When Buying a New Townhouse in Melbourne
Buying a new townhouse is a great investment that needs careful consideration and planning. To ensure that you make the best decision, it’s important to consider a few key factors that make the property the most ideal for you. In today’s article, we’ll be guiding you on how to select the best townhouse for you through several factors.
Choose a prime location.
One of the first things you need to look at is the townhouse’s location: is it within proximity of public transportation and essential amenities? Is it near the school, hospital, or shopping centers in the area? Don’t be easily blinded by the “new townhouses for sale” sign you see marketed since location is one of the biggest determining factors when choosing a property. Double-check if the townhouse complies with the local planning regulations and if it’s rightfully located in the residential zone.
Location aside, it’s also equally important to check if the neighborhood is safe. Research the crime rates and overall safety and security of the neighborhood before anything else. While we’re at it, look into it if there are any future development plans in the area since it can also affect the overall living environment and property values.
Ensure that it’s built with quality.
A well-built structure is also a must, so make sure that the townhouse you’re eyeing is made of quality building materials. If you can, inquire about the building contractor’s warranty coverage to see if they also cover workmanship issues. It’s better to verify for yourself the structural integrity of the place, and you may also ask an engineer or architect to check it. Also, look into the soundproofing of the units; compared to apartments, townhouses are generally quieter, but it’s still ideal to check if it has adequate soundproofing so that there’s minimal noise among neighbors.
Nowadays, many townhouses are also incorporated with energy-efficient systems and sustainable design strategies. Are the lighting and ventilation maximized? Apart from that, see if there are any energy-efficient features included in the design, like solar panels or energy-saving appliances.
Check the layout and design.
Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, check if the townhouse meets your needs or if you can make a few adjustments to it. See if it has enough storage space and check if there is built-in furniture in the place, like walk-in closets, cupboards, and wardrobe cabinets.
Speaking of spaces, is the outdoor area adequate for you? Does it have a balcony, garden, or terrace? This is also crucial since it will also serve as your own private area where you can reconnect with nature.
The ambiance of a place is also one of the deciding factors when it comes to townhouses; nobody wants to live in a gloomy and dimly lit living area. Ensure that the property receives enough natural light and ventilation to improve the indoor air quality.
Understand the corporate fees and regulations.
Finally, read through the monthly or annual body corporate fees to check the inclusions and what they cover, such as maintenance fees, administrative expenses, and insurance. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations since they can also detail in the terms if you’re allowed to have any pets or renovations within the property.
These are just a few of the major factors you need to consider when buying a new townhouse. You need to do extensive research on the property or consult with a qualified real estate agent to help you make an informed decision.