Luxury Properties 101: How to Know if You've Found the Real Deal

Luxury Properties 101: How to Know if You’ve Found the Real Deal

If you’re in the market for a luxury property, certain features signify you’re investing in the real deal. While high-end homes run the gamut from beachside villas to urban compounds, they all have certain characteristics in common. But what may seem like a luxury property from the photos may not stand up to scrutiny once Balenciaga boots are on the ground. Go beyond the spec sheet and dig into what makes this place worthy of its top-dollar price tag.

Vancouver waterfront with tall luxury condo towers

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Location Station

Not surprisingly, a luxury property’s location is the most valuable status symbol. A property in Vancouver’s West Point Grey is a prime piece of real estate, no matter what the house looks like. But buyers should also be on the lookout for up-and-coming neighourhoods with amazing amenities and innovative developments. Investing in a luxury property in an area on the brink of becoming the next “it” ‘hood could really pay off.

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Bragging Rights

When it comes to luxury properties of the world’s well-heeled, Provence plays a pivotal role. A house with a story – such as being designed by an influential architect or inhabited by an Austrian Barron in the 1800s – is valuable. See if the home has a feature, a history or a location unique just to it; after all, exclusivity is the definition of luxury.

Aerial view of luxury estate and gardens

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A Private Matter

The one-per-cent can be a private lot, so most true luxury properties come with extensive security systems and sightline barriers. High perimeter walls, expansive cover foliage and a guarded gate are all features found at homes where privacy is a priority. Larger properties usually provide the most protection from prying eyes, so make sure there’s sufficient square footage to keep out peeping Toms.

Luxury home interior with marble staircase, floors and columns

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Finish Line

When touring a luxury property, pay special attention to the building materials, finishes, appliance brands and other coveted design elements. High-end homes feature expensive made-to-last construction materials that are a cut above what you’d find in a mid-range residence. Think Carrera marble, Miele commercial appliances, rare hardwoods and Venetian-glass fixtures used generously throughout, not just in one special feature room.

Sleek silver sports car in private garage

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All About Amenities

The special amenities being integrated into a luxury property these days is what really sets them apart. Plush home theatres used to be the height of entertainment indulgence; now, it’s an IMAX theatre. Having a multi-car garage in the city used to be a bonus; now, it’s having a showroom to display a vintage car collection. A wet bar was once a sign of success; today, it’s multiple specialty bars dedicated to one item (e.g. candy or tequila).

Sun shining through window in modern bathroom

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Eau du Toilette

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many luxury property hunters overlook the importance of bathrooms. Having an ensuite for each bedroom and a powder room for every public area shows that the designer knows what luxury really looks like.

Shopping for a luxury property can be overwhelming, with so much to consider from square footage to value. Look beyond the listing facts, below the surface – be it Venetian plaster or paneled hardwood – to see if this home has what it takes to qualify.