Living In A Central London 3-Bed ‘Walk-Up’ Flat
In some cases, buying a top floor 3-bed walk-up flat in Prime Central London (PCL) can save you anywhere between 15% - 25% of the price that it would cost you to buy the same flat in a building with a lift.
So, what are some of the pros and cons of buying a walk-flat in PCL?
Pros
Larger Flat
Your 3-bed flat will not only be cheaper, but it will also typically be larger.
It could well allow you to buy a 3-bed flat that is between 15% - 20% larger!
Typically, savings are greater the higher up you go in terms of floors.
Service Charges
Service charges will be a lot lower, too, because part of the service charge goes towards aspects such as regular inspections and maintenance of any lift(s) that are in the building.
Community
As strange as it may initially sound, living in a 3-bed walk-up flat will allow you to get to know your neighbours’ more.
You will often be walking down as they are walking up (and vice versa!) and it will allow your building to have more of a ‘community’ feel to it.
“Service charges will be a lot lower, too, because part of the service charge goes towards aspects such as regular inspections and maintenance of any lift(s) that are in the building.”
Cons
Stairs
The most obvious one on the list of cons is stairs.
If you are older, I would certainly not recommend buying a 3-bed walk-up flat!
The same goes for anyone who anticipates older relatives or friends visiting.
They’re great for when you’re young (and without children and/ or pets!) but can become a real hassle when circumstances change.
Builders/ Contractors
If and when you do work on the 3-bed flat, it will be much more difficult for any builders or contractors to work efficiently, especially if they have to carry up kitchen units and anything that is large or heavy!
Older
A number of 3-bed walk up buildings are older, meaning that they require higher maintenance costs.
Think aspects such as roofing, heating and electrical costs over the long term…
Would you be tempted to buy a 3-bed walk-up flat in Central London?