When you think of Coronado, CA, you may think of sparkling mica-flecked beaches, charming shops, stunning ocean views, and bike rides along the boardwalk. You would be right to think that, as these are some of the standout features of this lovely Southern California beach town. Whether you are drawn to surfing, playing a round at the Coronado Municipal Golf Course, or wandering the Coronado Museum of History & Art, there is definitely something for everyone on this idyllic island.
But what about the homes? The island is known for its Spanish, Victorian, and Cape Cod Coastal architecture and Shotgun and Palmer houses. Coronado luxury homes are a sight to behold, and each has its own unique design elements and features. So, how do you know if a home is the right fit for you?
When you're looking for a new home, photos are always important. But what if the photos aren't great? Or what if there aren't any photos at all? How do you know whether or not a home has potential?
It can be tough to look past bad photos, but it's worth it. You may find a hidden gem underneath those less-than-stellar listing pictures! This post will share how to see the potential in any home, no matter what the photos show. So don't give up on that dream home just yet — keep reading to learn more!
Don’t Be Discouraged by the Little Details
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Whether you think the paint colors are gauche or the thought of removing wallpaper makes you cringe, don't let these dissuade you from considering a property listed in the Coronado real estate market – these features can easily be changed! The same goes for knobs, cabinet pulls, and light fixtures. These things can be changed relatively easily on your own or with the help of a reliable contractor. You can simply replace cosmetic features that don't match your aesthetic sensibilities to make the home your own.
Consider Renovations
You should also consider carrying out larger renovations to help the home better suit your needs and desires. Maybe the kitchen needs new cabinets, countertops, or appliances. Or maybe the bathrooms could use new vanities or floor tile. These things can be handled even before you move in with the help of a contractor. If you're not planning to do any major renovations right away, it's still important to factor in the cost of future projects when considering a home. In most cases, cosmetic changes, even on a large scale, can be completed to your specifications in a matter of months. If you need help finding a contractor, reach out to a Coronado real estate agent for a list of recommendations.
Look for a Good Foundation
You'll want to make sure the home is well constructed. This includes things like the roof, the plumbing, the foundation, and the electrical system. These are all important factors to consider when looking at any home, but they're especially important if the photos show a home needing some TLC. On the flip side, while some homes may need a lot of work, if the foundation and roof are in good shape, this will save you a huge headache!
Think About the Layout and Flow of the Space
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The layout of a home is important, especially if you have a specific way you want to use the space. Maybe you want an open concept kitchen or a certain number of bedrooms. Maybe you're looking for a home with a pool or a patio.
Whatever your must-haves are, it's important to think about the layout of the space and how it will work for you. Even if a home doesn't have the exact layout you're looking for, it may be possible to reconfigure the space to better suit your needs. If a room looks small in the photos, is there a way to make it appear larger? Maybe you can take down a wall or two to create a more open concept. An experienced contractor can help you determine whether or not your proposed changes are feasible.
Pay Attention to the Available Lighting
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In addition to the size of the rooms, you'll also want to pay attention to the windows and natural light. Are there a lot of windows? Do they let in a lot of light? If not, you may be able to add more windows or skylights. Alternatively, you may be able to supplement with better interior lighting. Effective lighting can make a big difference in how a space feels, and it’s possible that the rooms will be larger in real life than they appeared in dimly lit photographs.
Consider What Area of the Island You Prefer
When considering living in Coronado, the location is more important than you may think – it can affect your quality of life, so choose wisely! Coronado Island has several main areas where you can seek a new home. Bayside and Ferry Landing may be right for you if you want to be close to the ferry to and from San Diego. You’ll have impressive views of the bridge and easy access to the amenities on Orange Avenue without living directly on Coronado's main street.
The Historic Downtown area on Orange Avenue has it all: shopping, cafes, restaurants, the historic library, parks to stroll, the Museum of History and Art, the movie theater, and the Lamb's Players Theatre, where you can catch upcoming shows like "Ken Ludwig's Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery!" Historic Downtown is right for you if you want to be close to all the action.
If you prefer to spend your time enjoying outdoor activities like golf, yachting, swimming, and tennis, Glorietta Bay and the Silver Strand areas may be more your speed. No matter where you choose to live on Coronado, you're sure to find a community that feels like home.
Don’t Forget About the Yard and Outdoor Spaces
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The yard and outdoor spaces are often overlooked, but they're important! If the photos of the inside of the home aren't great, look at the outside. Is there potential for a beautiful garden? A cozy patio space? These are things that can impact your enjoyment of your property long-term. As with interior cosmetic changes, landscaping can easily be changed to match your preferences with the help of a professional service.
Ready to get started?
These are just a few tips to help you see the potential in any home, no matter how unappealing the photos may make it seem. When looking at homes, it's important to remember that the photos don't always tell the whole story. There's always the potential for a home to be great, no matter what the pictures look like. So don't give up on your dream home just yet — keep these tips in mind, and you'll be sure to find the perfect place!
If you are ready to start your search for the right property in Coronado, reach out to local agent Manuel Sanchez for assistance. Manuel has an impressive portfolio of sold properties and has been ranked as the top agent of the “40 under 40” in San Diego. He is ready to help you find the perfect new home!
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
