Expert: Derek Hamilton - 3/16/2011

Question
We recently saw a plan for a new home from a builder. Everythings great except that the balcony on the second floor opens from the washroom. The balcony has French doors opening to outside, but these French doors are inside the washroom which is attached to the bedroom. And there are no doors to the balcony from the bedroom. So if we need to get into the balcony, it can only be through the washroom. Is this normal? Has anybody seen such plans before? We really want to buy this house, but we are also concerned whether the balcony issue will devalue the house when it comes to reselling the house in the future? Let us know if you think this is a big issue..       P.S: In the plan, the washroom is on the left hand side, balcony door in the middle of the house and bed room resides on the right hand side. The toilet is on the far left, then comes the balcony doors adjacent to toilet. tub and sink are behind the doors.

Answer
Hi Melissa,
I have never seen such a strange floor plan? This is not normal! If you like the property
and want to purchase it? Make the offer Conditional upon the Builder making the changes.
Move the door into the master bedroom and replace the door from the bathroom with a window.
I would need to see the floor plan to have a better idea. I don't really understand the plan?
Thanks,
Derek