You can't eat the view

Balancing Beauty and Practicality in Real Estate

Crunch the numbers but Trust your gut

When it comes to real estate, the allure of a stunning view can often overshadow practical considerations. The phrase "you can't eat the view" encapsulates the idea that aesthetic appeal, while important, shouldn't be the sole factor driving a property purchase decision. Balancing beauty with functionality and financial prudence is essential for making wise real estate investments.

The Appeal of a Beautiful View

A property with a breathtaking view can be incredibly tempting. Whether it's an oceanfront panorama, a city skyline, or a mountain vista, a great view can significantly enhance the enjoyment of a home. It can also boost property value, making it a desirable asset in the real estate market.

1. Emotional Connection: A stunning view can create an emotional connection to a property, making it feel like a dream home. This emotional pull can often lead buyers to overlook other critical aspects of the property.

2. Marketability: Properties with exceptional views are often more marketable, attracting a wider range of potential buyers. This can be beneficial if you plan to sell the property in the future.

3. Lifestyle Benefits: Living with a beautiful view can improve quality of life, providing daily enjoyment and a sense of tranquillity. It can also be a unique feature for hosting and entertaining guests.

The Practical Realities

While a beautiful view can add value to a property, it's essential to consider the practical aspects that directly impact your daily life and financial stability.

1. Affordability: Properties with great views often come with a premium price tag. It's important to ensure that the additional cost fits within your budget and doesn't lead to financial strain.

2. Maintenance Costs: Scenic locations, such as coastal or hillside properties, can come with higher maintenance costs due to exposure to the elements. Saltwater corrosion, erosion, and weather-related damage can lead to significant ongoing expenses.

3. Utility and Convenience: Consider the functionality of the property. Is it well-designed for your needs? Does it have a practical layout, sufficient storage, and easy access to essential amenities? A beautiful view can’t compensate for a lack of practicality in your daily living environment.

4. Investment Potential: While views can enhance property value, other factors such as location, infrastructure, and market trends also play crucial roles in determining the property's long-term investment potential.

The optimist sees the donut, the pessimist sees the hole

Oscar Wilde

Balancing Aesthetics with Practicality

To make a well-rounded real estate investment, it's important to balance the appeal of a beautiful view with practical considerations:

1. Set Priorities: Determine your priorities before starting your property search. While a great view might be high on your list, ensure it doesn't overshadow other essential factors such as affordability, location, and functionality.

2. Budget Wisely: Create a realistic budget that accounts for both the initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs. Avoid overextending yourself financially just to secure a property with a view.

Not all views are permanent

3. Evaluate Functionality: Assess the property’s practical features. Ensure it meets your needs in terms of size, layout, and accessibility to amenities like schools, workplaces, and healthcare facilities.

4. Consider Long-Term Value: Think about the property's long-term investment potential. Research the local real estate market and consider factors that might affect property values in the future, such as development plans and economic trends.

5. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with professionals to gain insights into the market and ensure you’re making a sound investment. Their expertise can help you balance the emotional appeal of a view with practical considerations.

*Bonus: Remember that the landscape can change.

Today's pristine view could be tomorrow's construction site

That’s not always a bad thing but it is good to be aware of how the view may change in time whether

Tight Site Burns Bright

This was an interesting site that I walked over in the early days of the build. Such a clever use of space, style and design in the heart of the city. These will fly and kudos to the developer Michael Blayney & Brian Guckian of BG-Co Architects on the vision and execution.

Three Key Takeaways

1. Balancing Act: A stunning view can enhance property value and enjoyment, but practical considerations like affordability, maintenance, and functionality are crucial.

2. Budget and Prioritise: Ensure that the cost of a view fits within your budget and doesn't overshadow other essential property features.

3. Long-Term Perspective: Consider the long-term investment potential and practicality of the property to make a sound and sustainable real estate decision.

By keeping these principles in mind, you can enjoy the beauty of a great view without compromising on practicality and financial security.

"You can't eat the view" serves as a reminder that while aesthetic appeal is an important factor in choosing a property, it shouldn't be the sole determinant. Balancing beauty with practicality ensures that your investment is not only enjoyable but also financially sound and sustainable in the long run.

By setting clear priorities, budgeting wisely, evaluating functionality, considering long-term value, and seeking professional advice, you can make a well-rounded decision that meets both your emotional and practical needs.

Random Real Estate Trivia

In the US, homes with black or charcoal front doors are sold for more

The colour of your front door can have an impact on the sale price of your home. According to a study conducted by Zillow, homes with black or charcoal front doors are sold for more than homes with other colours of front doors. The study found that homes with black front doors sold for an average of $6,271 more than homes with white front doors. This trend is thought to be due to the perceived sophistication and modernity of black front doors, which can make a home stand out and appeal to potential buyers. When making minor updates to your home, consider the colour of your front door.

Could this could increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell… as long as it’s not hot pink I think you’ll be fine.

P.S. As a subscriber if you have friends or family who are feeling lost in their property journey they can book a 30 minute session with me to help them get clear (no sales pitch, just guidance & an impartial ear).

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Andrew

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