We all know how important location is when buying a house, and there are many aspects to consider: proximity to shops and services, top schools, public transit, recreation, and highway access, to name a few. But what about a view? How important is it? Will it cost more, and can it help you when it’s time to resell? Below, we explore the pros and cons of buying a home with a view.
What Constitutes a View?
First, let’s clarify—what exactly constitutes a view? For different people, a “view” means different things. One person may dream of a home overlooking the ocean, while another might prefer a peaceful lake or winding river. Generally, any kind of scenic vista—mountains, forests, vineyards, or rolling hills—is considered a good view.
There are also man-made views, like city skylines. Whether it’s a home on the city’s edge or a penthouse in the heart of downtown, urban views can be just as breathtaking if that’s your preference.
Does a View Home Cost More?
There’s no question that a home with a view will cost more to buy. How much more depends on the location and how desirable the view is. Overall, location plays a huge role in pricing. For instance, a skyline view in Manhattan will cost far more than one in Portland. Similarly, a panoramic view of the Rockies will likely demand a higher price than a view of gentle hills.
Is a View Home Worth the Extra Cost?
Personal preference goes a long way in answering this question. If you’ve always dreamed of living by the ocean, chances are you’ve done your homework and know the premium that comes with it. For many buyers, the opportunity to live that dream—waking up to crashing waves and morning beach walks—is worth every extra penny.
Will Your View Home Retain Its Value?
When buying a home with a view, are you doing it for personal enjoyment or as an investment? Spending thousands more with the hope of future value isn’t always wise. Your idea of a stunning view may not appeal to the next buyer. If they don’t see the view as a major selling point, you could lose money.
That’s why what you pay for the home is just as important as with any other property—don’t get swept up and overpay, assuming you’ll make it back later. Buy a view home because you love it, not because you expect a return on that specific feature.
Will a Home With a View Sell Easier?
There’s no simple answer here. Again, location plays a huge role. If that mountain view home is located hours from the nearest town, it may be difficult to sell despite the scenery. Rural homes are often harder to move, regardless of how beautiful the view is.
On the flip side, an ocean-view home within commuting distance to a major city will likely sell more quickly and command a better price.
So What’s the Conclusion?
As mentioned earlier, it comes down to personal preference. If you’ve always longed for a mountain or ocean view, paying a bit more to fulfill that dream may be worth it—just go into the process with realistic expectations.
Not everyone appreciates a rural location, so avoid overpaying for a view that might not appeal to future buyers. You can’t always expect to recoup the full premium when it’s time to sell.
Also, consider how long you plan to stay. If this is your forever home, the view’s value is more about lifestyle than resale. But if you know you’ll move within a few years, paying a premium for the view could be a bigger financial risk. Think carefully about your long-term goals before investing in a home with a view.
