New building or old building: which apartment to choose?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of new-build or old-build: new-build offers modern planning and fresh lines of communication, while old-build usually offers an established neighborhood and immediate move-in. The choice depends on your budget, how long you can wait and how much time you can devote to the repair. Below we compare both options according to practical criteria.

Planning and room dimensions

In new buildings, projects are usually prepared according to today's needs: the kitchen can be combined with the living room, the corridor takes up less space, some apartments have two bathrooms. Windows are often larger, rooms are brighter. However, there are also projects where rooms are reduced to increase the number of rooms in the same area. Therefore, look not at the total square meter, but at the separate size of each room.

In old buildings, the kitchen is often small, the corridor is long, and sometimes the rooms are connected to each other. The advantage is that the walls are usually thick and strong, the sound insulation can be better than some new buildings. If you want to change the plan, do not start any demolition work without asking an expert which wall is load-bearing.

Repair needs and additional costs

Newly built apartments are often sold with a white frame or unfinished renovation. This means that you will be responsible for the flooring, walls, doors, plumbing and sometimes electrical work. The advantage is that you build the house according to your taste from the beginning. The disadvantage is that renovation requires both time and a serious budget.

An apartment in an old building is often ready to live in, but be sure to find out when the renovation was done. Worn water pipes, electrical wiring and windows may need to be replaced within the first year. During the inspection, pay attention to:

• damp spots, traces of mold in the bathroom and kitchen;
• condition of the electrical panel and sockets;
• window sealing and condition of the frames;
• cracks in the walls and ceiling.

Communications and general condition of the building

In new buildings, the water, sewage, electricity and natural gas lines are usually new, and the heating solutions are also usually it is modern. Since the elevator, entrance and stairwell are new, the total maintenance cost in the first years is low. However, if the building has just been handed over, it may take time for all lines to be fully operational, so ask in advance.

In an old building, common lines have been used for years. The condition of the roof, basement and entrance door gives a good idea of ​​how the building was maintained. Ask the neighbors: do the houses stay warm in the winter, is the water pressure sufficient in the summer? Given Nakhchivan's hot summer and cold winter, the issue of insulation and heating is important in both building types.

Neighborhood and neighborhood environment

Old buildings are usually located in well-established neighborhoods: schools, kindergartens, shops, pharmacies and public transport are nearby, neighbors know each other. This is a great convenience, especially for families with children and the elderly.

Some of the new buildings are being built in developing areas. Here, the streets may be wider, the yards neater, but the full formation of the infrastructure takes time. Until the building is fully occupied, the sound of renovations in the neighboring apartments is also normal. If you are interested in new residential areas in the city of Nakhchivan, you can compare the environment by looking at New Nakhchivan real estate ads.

Risks of delay and waiting time

If you choose an apartment from a building that is still under construction, the biggest practical risk is the extension of the delivery time. During this period, you may have to continue to live in a rental, which means an additional burden on the budget. Take these steps to reduce the risk:

1. Visit buildings previously completed by the developer.
2. See the current stage of construction with your own eyes.
3. Estimate if you can pay a few months of additional rent if there is a delay.

There is no such waiting in an old building: you can move in shortly after the agreement. This risk is also eliminated in a new building that has already been put into use, because you see the apartment as it is.

Which option is suitable for whom?

The new building is more suitable in these cases: you want to renovate the house to your taste, you do not have to move urgently, modern planning and an elevator are important to you. An older building makes more sense in these situations: you want to move quickly, proximity to school and work is a priority, you prefer to live in an established neighborhood.

The best way is to look at several apartments of both types and compare them. In the current apartment ads you can see both new and old buildings in one place. During the inspection, note the same questions for each apartment: the size of the rooms, the need for repairs, the state of communication, the comfort of the neighborhood and the approximate date of moving. Such a list prevents emotional decision-making and makes the differences clear.

Frequently asked questions

Is a newly built apartment always more expensive?

No, the price depends on the area, the floor, the state of repair and the size of the apartment. A well-maintained apartment in an old building can be more expensive than a white frame new apartment, so evaluate each listing separately.

What are the most important things to look for when buying an apartment in an old building?

Look at the condition of water and electrical lines, windows, roof and stairwell. Go to the inspection during the day and talk to the neighbors if possible.

How long does it take to repair a white frame apartment?

It depends on the size of the apartment, the materials you choose, and the work schedule of the craftsmen. When planning, consider the renovation period carefully and set your move-in date accordingly.

If you're still undecided about which option is right for you, the Evim Real Estate team can design options from both new and old builds to fit your budget and needs. Contact us and we will arrange a viewing time that suits you.