How to Secure a Pre-Construction Condo with the Best View

An aerial view of some condos at sunset

Thinking about buying a pre-construction condo in the Greater Toronto Area? One of the best parts is waking up to an amazing city skyline view right from your window. But here’s the thing: when you’re looking at pre-construction condos, it’s not always easy to picture what you’re going to get. You’ve got to rely on what the builders tell you and what’s left to pick from. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. This guide is all about making your journey to finding that perfect condo with a mesmerizing view a whole lot smoother. Let’s get started!

Here’s how to secure a pre-construction condo with the best city view:

1. Understand the Developer’s Plan

When you’re looking at a site plan for a pre-construction condo, think about a few key things. First, check which way the condo faces. This matters for your view and how much sunlight you’ll get. A place facing east will get bright morning light, while west-facing units catch the sunset.

Next, think about what’s around the building. If there’s an empty lot across the street, chances are a new building pops up there, it might block your view. So, it’s a good idea to find out if there are any plans for new buildings nearby.

Also, consider how high up your condo will be. Higher floors often have better views, but sometimes the angle from a lower floor might actually give you a nicer view of the city.

2. Choose the Right Floor

Typically in a pre-construction condo project in Canada, the higher a unit, the more it will cost you. Usually, once you get above the 6th floor, you start to notice a big difference in what you can see. It’s not just about seeing further; it’s about feeling a bit above it all, away from the street noise and closer to the sky. You should also consider the feel of each floor. While higher up offers more privacy from traffic noise, it also means spending more time in the elevator.

3. Timing is Key

Developers often open sales to VIP clients or exclusive real estate brokerages before releasing them to the public. Register early for the developer’s or brokerage’s newsletters and express your interest as a buyer. As a pre-construction specialist in Brampton, I have access to some amazing projects across Ontario and Alberta through my brokerage and I’d be happy to provide you with more information on these projects.

An aerial view of a city covered in snow

4. Review the Orientation

Assess not just the current view but also how it might change with the seasons or due to future developments. Pay attention to the path of the sun and how it interacts with your unit. Units facing parks, water bodies, or iconic landmarks generally have higher demand, so get in early and book your condo.

5. Negotiation Skills

Educate yourself about the local real estate market, so you can negotiate better deposit payment terms and even reduce the unit price. As of November 2023, there are plenty of pre-construction condo units available on the market in Toronto, Hamilton, and Calgary , so builders are trying to attract buyers by offering them incentives like free assignment and rental guarantee. This is your time to negotiate and get the best of bold worlds.

6. Legal Due Diligence

Understand contract terms and ensure there are protections for your view. After you make your first deposit, you activate a mandatory 10-day cooling off period, during which you can consult a real estate lawyer and understand the contract better. You may choose to back out within this period and won’t be charged any penalties.

If you’re in the market for a pre-construction condo in the GTA and want expert guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Realtor Catherine Nacar today.

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