A Pre-build property is a home that is planned or partially built before it is sold. A purchaser can usually choose their location if there is still inventory such as unit number.
Do you prefer morning or evening sun to shine into your home?
What will your views be?
Will you face the water or the city or a park or another building?
A pre-build is often marketed as a ‘pre-construction’.
Important Considerations Before Purchasing
Some important consideration before purchasing a condo are size of windows and which ones open and that you are prepared for this.
- What are the dimensions of interior spaces room, closets, bathrooms, eating areas etc.
- What are the heights of the ceilings and where do they lower with bulkheads?
- Will you be able to bring over some of your beautiful ceiling lights from your house if you are downsizing or should you sell them with your house.
- Storage is one of the most important issues that come up; where will your extra food pantry storage be and where can you store your vacuum with charger, some of your costco purchases such as toilet paper and paper towels, your seasonal decorations, your travel luggage etc. Make sure that the size of condominium you decide to purchase meets your needs.
- A one bedroom or do you also need office space? A two bedroom or three or four bedroom? The larger your unit the more maintenance fees you will pay so you also don’t want to pay for more than what will be useful to you.
- Will you retire in this home?
- Do you want it to be accessible? Accessibility can range from door sizes to the types of hardware you select that will suit arthritis symptoms etc. This is a whole other blog I will touch on another time.
- The outdoor terrace or balcony; Can you have a gas or propane BBQ on the balcony? Do you want to ask for an extra outlet for an electric BBQ or outdoor heated lamps if this is permitted?
Know the Deadlines
There will be builder deadlines in relation to when you can make changes to electrical and plumbing items in your condo well in advance of them pouring the concrete at your suite level. Be sure to not miss the cut off dates if you wish to do a few customization’s after you firm the deal. More importantly, you can ask if customization’s are allowed and what is allowed, before you purchase. Always get things in writing on the Purchase Agreement.
If you’re unsure how a space will work for you, having a designer create a floor plan with furniture layouts before making a firm offer can provide clarity. It helps you visualize how the square footage translates into real life usability; whether a queen size bed, sectional sofa, or dining table will fit comfortably.
Example Floorplan Yorkville Condo
Planning in advance when designing, renovating, or buying a home can save you a significant amount of money over time. Here’s how:
1. Longer Time in the Home (Avoiding Early Moves)
- Reduced moving costs: Every move costs thousands in realtor fees, legal fees, movers, and potential penalties.
- Better mortgage terms: Staying longer helps you benefit from stable financing and long term equity growth.
- Avoiding “outgrowing” the space: Planning for future life stages (kids, aging in place, home office needs) means you won’t need to sell and upgrade prematurely.
2. Greater Resale Value
- Timeless, quality choices: Materials and layouts that are thoughtfully chosen hold their appeal longer, attracting more buyers. If you plan on renting the space for long or short term rentals; the quality of the material will help in longevity. For instance; if some water falls on the laminate floor can it handle it for a short amount of time if it is not wiped up immediately?
- Strategic upgrades: Investing in the right features such as kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, other details can significantly boost future resale value.
- Location and layout planning: Choosing a desirable layout or investing in a rising neighborhood can increase appreciation over time.
3. Creating a timeless designed space means less Need for future Renovations
- Design with flexibility in mind: Multi-purpose rooms, accessible features, or adaptable spaces reduce the need for major changes later.
- Do it right the first time: Cutting corners often leads to costly redos. Thoughtful planning ensures that materials, systems, and design choices are durable and aligned with future needs. Hiring Ania Maternicki will be a well made investment.
- Better infrastructure choices: Planning things like extra outlets, proper lighting, built-in storage, and smart home wiring avoids expensive retrofits.
4. Energy Efficiency and Maintenance Savings
- Lower utility bills: Planning for insulation, efficient windows, and HVAC systems pays off for decades.
- Less maintenance: Durable materials and thoughtful design reduce the frequency and cost of repairs. When will the finishes selections take place? Book an appointment as soon as you know and be sure to invite the designer. They can help you decide on which builder finishes to use and where to upgrade. Some items you can change in the future and some are best to change now to suit your individual needs and taste.
- Eco rebates and incentives: Planning allows you to take advantage of government programs or builder incentives at the right time. Are appliances included in your deal? If so which ones? Are they energy efficient or can you upgrade to such? What kind of ventilation does the dryer have? Does your fridge have a water line? How many sinks do you need? What kind of faucets? What are the toilet details and so on.
5. Lifestyle Fit Saves Money
- Avoiding lifestyle mismatches: A home that suits your actual habits reduces frustration and costly lifestyle “patches” (e.g. unnecessary storage units, renovations, or commuting expenses).
- Smarter space planning: Good flow and storage means less need for furniture replacements, room reworks, or add-ons.
I’ve done this for many clients, and it’s proven invaluable in helping them make confident, informed decisions.
“Hi Ania,
We made A LOT of progress today at our builder meeting. Thank you for all your help in moving forward. I am very grateful for all your guidance. …
Thank you sooo much for all your help! I have told Bob many times – it changes everything working with you💞 K.
Reaching out to a designer early ensures the property aligns with what your space, lifestyle vision or investment goals are and to help you confirm whether your property will align with future buyers. When you work with AVA Interior Design, you work directly with me and you won’t be disappointed.