How to read your new home floorplans

It seems to me that the need to understand, and be able to properly decipher, real estate floor plans should be greater today than ever before. In a large portion of real estate sales the floor plan is all we have to try and understand what exactly we're purchasing, with so many hundreds of thousands of our hard earned dollars. Here are a few tips and insights.

First of all, remember that a floor plan will give you the general layout of the interior but not of the lot size. The lot size should be taken from the survey. Also, when viewing the survey and validating the lot size the builder tells you, remember to take into consideration how much of the total depth is at the front and at the back. Sometimes a lot depth of 150 feet can be deceiving when you find out that the backyard actually measures a depth of only 25 feet.

Remember also that the dimensions of the rooms are straight wall to straight wall, normally. So if you're trying to determine how and where the television or furniture will fit, you may need to get additional, more specific measurements from the builder - measurements between windows for example.

Always consider the number of windows the builder is giving. In many cases you'll find that shelling out a bit extra for an additional window or two can go a long way in adding value to your home - especially along the sides of your home. In the case of condos of course such a thing is not a concern.

Also look at areas where a half wall is suggested, or can be erected. Remember, the home doesn't exist yet so if you're planning changes to the layout, getting them done from the builder might be a good idea. Windows are often overlooked as is the layout of the basement. You should determine where the 3-piece rough in will be and see if it makes sense for your future plans. If necessary, this can be moved, likely at an expense mind you. Also consider if an area to add a separate entrance exists and if so at what cost?

Doors are a big deal as well. Try to ensure there is one from the garage into the home. Also see if there exists any space to add a door between a bedroom and a bathroom, giving direct access. This is another valuable feature, both practically and for resale. Double door entry is also always a nice, crowd-pleasing feature.

One other thing the floor plan will not show you is the length of the driveway and whether or not a pedestrian walkway will be on your side of the street. Different people have different preferences for this but I can tell you that a driveway without a walkway will likely fit double the amount of cars it otherwise would.

These few tips should help you get started towards better understanding what it is you're looking for, next time you pick up a floor plan from the sales office. The point is to get off the page and start envisioning the 3D model, and whether or not you can see yourself a part of it.

Amit Paul is a realtor, owner and partner with two Toronto real estate firms. He can always be reached at ap.1@rogers.com.