Are Corner Houses More Expensive? What to Know

A corner house is a property situated at the intersection of two streets, with frontage on two sides rather than just one. There is a common perception that corner houses might be more expensive due to their distinct characteristics. This article will explore the various factors that contribute to the value, both positively and negatively, of these properties.

Attributes That Can Increase Value

Corner houses often boast a larger lot size, providing more outdoor space for activities, landscaping, or potential future additions like larger patios, outdoor kitchens, or even swimming pools, enhancing the property’s utility and appeal. The additional frontage also offers opportunities for creative landscaping designs, which can significantly boost curb appeal.

Homes on corner lots typically receive more natural light due to fewer obstructions. This increased exposure to sunlight leads to brighter interiors and can improve cross-ventilation, creating a more open and inviting atmosphere within the home. The dual street frontage also provides enhanced architectural flexibility, allowing for more elaborate designs and unique features.

A side-entry garage is a design option frequently available for corner lots, which can significantly improve the aesthetic of the front facade by moving the garage doors out of direct view. This design choice can also make the home appear larger and contribute to its overall curb appeal. Having only one direct neighbor on an adjacent side can create a greater sense of openness and privacy from immediate adjoining homes, compared to properties sandwiched between two others.

Attributes That Can Decrease Value

A corner house at an intersection is exposed to increased noise and traffic from two streets, which can be a notable drawback, especially in busy neighborhoods. This constant exposure to vehicular and pedestrian activity can disrupt the quiet enjoyment of the home and its outdoor spaces. Headlights from turning cars may also shine directly into the house at night, potentially interfering with sleep.

Corner lots generally offer less privacy because more of the property, including the yard and sometimes the interior, is visible to passersby. Homeowners may need to invest in additional fencing or strategic landscaping to create more secluded outdoor areas and mitigate this lack of seclusion. This increased visibility can also make corner properties more susceptible to security concerns, such as burglary.

Higher maintenance requirements are common for corner lots due to the increased yard space and often more extensive sidewalk frontage. This translates to more time and expense for tasks like mowing, landscaping, snow removal, and general upkeep.

A larger lot size can also lead to higher property tax assessments. Additionally, increased exposure to traffic and potential accidents might result in higher insurance premiums.

Corner lots can sometimes be subject to more restrictive zoning regulations, including increased setbacks or easements for utilities, which might limit building or landscaping options. These regulations, which vary by municipality, dictate how close structures can be to property lines and can impact the usable area of the lot. For instance, a corner lot may have two “front” yards for setback purposes, reducing the buildable footprint.

Overall Market Impact on Pricing

The ultimate impact of a corner lot on pricing is not universal, depending on market dynamics and specific property characteristics. Supply and demand play a role, with corner lots sometimes commanding a premium in certain markets where their advantages are highly sought after. Conversely, in areas where privacy and quiet are prioritized, a corner lot might be less desirable and not command a higher price.

Neighborhood context heavily influences the desirability of corner lots. For example, in suburban areas, the larger yards and potential for side-entry garages are often valued, while in dense urban environments, the increased noise and traffic might make them less appealing. The specific layout and design of the house on the corner lot are also crucial; a well-designed home can capitalize on the advantages and effectively mitigate the disadvantages of its position.

Local zoning and regulations also affect a corner lot’s value by determining what can be built, how the land can be utilized, and what setbacks apply. These rules can either enhance or restrict the perceived benefits of a corner lot. Ultimately, the question of whether a corner house is more expensive boils down to individual buyer preferences and what they value more: the enhanced space, light, and architectural flexibility, or the potential drawbacks of increased exposure and maintenance.