Both old and new apartments are welcoming tenants with countless advantages and disadvantages. If in the past the price of new apartments was much higher than in the case of the old ones, things have changed considerably in recent years, the differences being almost insignificant. If you analyze the offer of old apartments on the market, here are the things you should consider:
Thermal insulation & outdated installations
If the block where the apartment is located is older than 30 years, chances are that the installations will not be in the best condition. Usually, the most affected are the apartments on the ground floor and on the top floor, where water infiltration is the easiest. Please look into the electrical installation, sanitary installation, but also the thermal insulation.
Subdivision
Specific to the apartments in the old blocks is the subdivision according to the old plans, which do not correspond to the needs of the modern man. Nowadays, the rooms are more spacious, which give the home a more airy feel. Most of the time, young people prefer only two generous bedrooms and a spacious living room, instead of 3 extremely crowded rooms.
Lack of underground parking
Nothing is more enjoyable after a tiring day than looking for a parking spot near the block. Moreover, there will always be stress caused by the fact that the car is parked outdoors and is subject to risks. Underground parking is just a dream for residents in old blocks.
Lack of modern amenities
Old apartments that do not have more than 4 floors do not have a lift, which is extremely useful, especially in the event of a move. Beyond this, you may need to make additional investments for certain amenities that bring you extra comfort: underfloor heating, central heating, etc. Don’t forget to take into account the additional costs of these changes.
The feeling of security
If in the case of new residential complexes, the access of foreign persons to the building becomes more difficult, we cannot say the same thing about the old blocks. Those facilities that could bring added security: the cameras, 24/7 physical security service, are not an option for old buildings.
Risk in case of an earthquake
Nowadays, new housing blocks are subject to tougher regulations in the event of an earthquake. On average, an old block has a seismic coefficient of about 5%, while a new one has an average coefficient of 12%.
Quality of construction materials
It should be taken into account that the materials that were used in the construction of the block have a validity period, already expired. It is very possible that the common spaces of the block may look more attractive.
Of course, the old apartments also have a number of advantages: they are located in more strategic areas of the city, impose less maintenance costs, are more easily accessible at the price, etc. Our recommendation is to balance the advantages and disadvantages that each type of home imposes and choose what suits you best.
