Most potential buyers begin their condo search with a wish list of amenities and features they want. But these individuals are often surprised to learn that finding the perfect condo is often less about what you want, and more about what you need.
While there’s no denying that frivolous features like marble countertops or double-sided fireplaces are luxurious, they don’t necessarily have any impact on the quality of your day-to-day life.
Thus, we’ve decided to compile a list of condo features that can actually enhance your condo living experience.
Let’s dive right in!
Here Are 5 Functional Condo Features That Improve Quality of Life:
1. Superior Security
There’s nothing more inconvenient than having property stolen, your car was broken into, or damage done to your belongings— especially if you are unable to find the perpetrator due to insufficient surveillance or security measures.
Finding a condo building with modern, high-tech security equipment and 24-hour surveillance will always pay off in the long run.
We recommend looking for buildings with:
- Key fob access (as opposed to traditional keys) and intercom systems
- 24/7 monitoring services
- Automated lighting systems (in common areas, parkades, etc.)
- Alarm systems (fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, flood, etc.)
- Anti-loitering software
It is also advisable to seek out condo communities with on-site security guard services.
The peace of mind that comes with knowing you are protected from harm will, without a doubt, improve the quality of your condo living experience.
2. Adequate Parking
Parking is another condo feature that is often initially overlooked. We always encourage Alberta condo buyers to consider what their parking needs are before purchasing a unit.
Important questions to ask include:
- Will I be hosting guests on a regular basis?
- Will guest parking be on a first-come-first-serve basis? Or will parking passes or guest check-ins be required?
- Does my unit come with a designated parking space? Or can residents park in any space?
- Will I require a single parking space or two?
- Is there covered or underground parking? Or will my vehicle be exposed to the elements? Is the parkade heated?
- What is the clearance of the parkade? Is my vehicle too tall?
All of these factors will determine how satisfied you are with your parking arrangement over time.
3. Neighbourhood Amenities
When we think of condo amenities, we rarely think beyond the building we’re looking to buy into. But where that building is located (and what surrounds it) will have a major impact on the convenience of day-to-day life.
Being in close proximity to grocery stores, libraries, public transportation, gyms, and parks can make your condo living experience far more enjoyable. Plus, they eliminate the need to spend money commuting— a benefit that will save you a ton of money in the long run.
If you’re looking for a condo that will fit your lifestyle for years to come, neighbourhood amenities should be a top priority.
4. Outdoor Space
In one recent study, 44 per cent of Canadians stated they wanted more outdoor space in their next home with either a balcony, rooftop terrace, or pool.
Outdoor space is one of the most important functional condo features because it quite literally affects mental health and wellness.
The ability to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and breathe in a little fresh air is necessary for all of us. And it’s not something we can change if a unit does not have any outdoor space to offer.
Furthermore, outdoor areas are an excellent way to entertain more people during warmer months and they can contribute to healthy living (rooftop garden, anyone?).
When looking for your next condo we highly encourage keeping this condo feature at the forefront of your mind.
5. Soundproofing
The National Building Code of Canada enforces a minimum noise control requirement, but this requirement isn’t always enough to cancel out the sounds of foot traffic and other commotion.
Fortunately, there are condo developments that prioritize sound isolation and go the extra mile to provide a quiet, peaceful environment for their residents.
You can find out more about the condo building you’re interested in by requesting information about the acoustic design of the property.
If the design goes above and beyond the minimum noise isolation requirements, it is more likely you don’t be interrupted in the middle of the night by the sounds of crying babies or loud music.
And we can all agree that a good quality of sleep is essential for a good quality of life.
And there you have it! Our top functional condo features for Alberta condo buyers to consider.
Are you a condo developer or board member in need of a property management company that will provide streamlined and impactful solutions? Reach out today we are the best condo management company in Calgary. We’re confident we can provide the attentive service you deserve.
