3 Tips for Moving From a SF Home Into a Condo
Moving from a larger home into a condo, something many Canadians find themselves doing, presents a number of considerations, not the least of which is figuring out what to do with all your stuff. If you’ve spent years living in a detached home, it’s possible you’ve acquired a lot of furniture and household items over the years, or you’re simply used to living and indulging in a larger space. Here’s how to make the logistics a bit easier. Take measurements! Before you move into your new home, make sure you either take measurements of each room yourself, or have access to detailed floorplans. This can help you decide where to put certain furniture items, or if there’s room for them at all. It also helps you pair down your stuff ahead of time, as well as tell your movers where to place certain items as you move in. Sell or trade your older items. It’s totally possible that some of your bigger items just might not work in your new space. Think of this as an opportunity to make some cash. Try selling your larger or out-of-date items at a consignment store or on Craigslist. Or, try Canada-based Bunz, an online trading platform, which allows you to connect with local people and swap your items for other furniture, gift cards or services. Use the multitask rule. A good way to decide if something belongs in a smaller space is to ask yourself if it can do double duty. Can the den couch be turned into a guest bed? Can that sideboard store bar supplies on top and hardware in the drawers? Can your ottoman also hide blankets or cushions? When you’re in a smaller space, your furniture becomes much more useful if it can serve more than one purpose. Moving is exciting, and moving into a smaller space? Think of it as an opportunity. These tips will have you living large in a small space in no time.
What Most People Get Wrong About Penthouse Living
Penthouses have a certain appeal to them. From 24/7 concierges ready to welcome you home, to dazzling views and panoramic windows, many a buyer sees a penthouse unit as the key to an elevated urban lifestyle. And while penthouse living can be a dream come true, it’s not without a few items to be cautious about. Here’s what some buyers forget about penthouse living. You might have to take a long ride. While luxury condo units can often be found on any floor in a condo building, a true penthouse unit is often on one of the higher floors, usually the very top. While this might not be so bad in a low-rise building, taking the elevator to the top of a skyscraper can be a pain. Plus, if you have to take the stairs for any reason, say in an emergency or if the elevators are down, you’re in for a hike! Your condo fees will likely be higher. Condo fees are usually calculated based on the square footage of a unit. With penthouses, which are usually the largest suites in the building, you’ll be paying a hefty amount every month, on top of taxes and mortgage payments. Since condo fees cover the amenities, make sure the ones in your luxury building you’ll get use out of, otherwise, you might not be so excited about paying for other residents’ amenity use. High floors mean high winds. Depending on what level your unit is on, you might find the winds at high altitude disruptive. If your building is in a dense corridor with lots of high-rises, the wind tunnels could make this even worse. At worst, it may make your balcony or terrace unusable on all but the hottest days.
Things a Luxury Home Must Have
Buying or building a high-end home for the first time? These properties have a goal to go above and beyond anything you would find in traditional real estate, so buyers should always be on the lookout for the following to ensure what they’re buying is truly luxury and they won’t have to spend any time building extras into the home. Open concept floor plans. The goal is for the home to look and feel as large and airy as possible, and too many walls take away from that goal. Also, don’t forget the entryway staircase—two are better than one. High-end homes demand that when someone enters, they immediately feel like they’re somewhere special. Exercise, game and theatre rooms. Who wants to make a trip to an offsite gym? Having a fully decked out home gym is a necessary part of a high-end home. Not only should it have the best possible machines and equipment, but a great view and a fully stocked water fridge. And if you’re a big movie fan, a home theatre is a must. Technology is key. If it’s important to you, look for a home decked out in the latest in smart technology, from lighting to climate control and the security system. Today’s buyers also expect that the home is as environmentally friendly as possible, and the smarter your home system is the better it is for the environment. Extensive walk-in closets. One of the truest marks of a high-end home is the amount and size of the walk-in closets available. Closet space is incredibly important when dealing with someone with unlimited purchasing power. A properly designed dressing room includes abundant shelving and racks, gorgeous lighting and ceiling-to-floor mirrors.
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