What’s living in a laneway house like?

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Imagine your own little cottage located in Vancouver. That’s what laneway houses offer–a stand-alone home that’s modern and compact. But what’s the catch?

Here’s the pros and cons of laneway house living:

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Pros:

• Your own house!
• Private entrance
• No shared walls/floors with neighbours, so you can crank up the tunes!
• New, recently constructed as the concept of laneway housing is still so fresh.
• No waiting for the elevator and one flight of stairs, max.
• Multi-level appeal over comparable basement suites.

Cons:

• Heating costs are much higher. Electric baseboard heat for 4 walls on 2 floors over an unheated garage makes for pricey hydro bills (about $180 every two months in winter, compared to $60 in an apartment).
• Noise from garbage, recycling and green waste trucks.
• Paparazzi – curious passersby and future laneway home builders snapping photos, seriously!
• Laneway curb appeal just isn’t there among garages and garbage bins.
• Small second floors or often gabled ceilings.

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

1. Corner lots

Corner lots with front door facing the side street beats having to access via the lane or backyard of the main house.


2. Outdoor space

Some sort of porch, patio, garden enhances the appeal.

3. Use of garage

Not only for storage or to keep your car secure, but to have control over any noise associated with its use.

4. Contemporary walls versus gabled ceiling for second floor 

Usually means less floor space, but also less chance to bang your head.

5.Bedroom on main floor, living space on upper floor

You spend most of your time in the living room or kitchen, so elevate this experience with layouts that place these rooms above ground.

6. Neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle

If urban life is important, consider how living in a residential-only neighbourhood might affect your lifestyle before signing the lease.

7. Alternative heating options 

Look for laneway homes with alternative heating options to save on hydro costs.

Are you interested in selling or buying your home in the next few months? Work with award winning realtor, Carmen Leal and her team that specialize in Real Estate Vancouver and have qualified Buyers that are looking for a home in your area!   604.218.4846 & www.carmenleal.ca

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

                                                                 This communication is not intended to induce breach of existing listing agreement.