Characterful 3-Room Apartment with Balcony in Popular Nieuw-Engeland

This charming three-room apartment is situated on the Kneppelhoutstraat in the sought-after Nieuw-Engeland district of Utrecht. The property combines character, natural light, and a practical layout, making it an ideal home for first-time buyers looking to establish themselves in a desirable location close to the city center.

The apartment is located on the second and third floors of a portiekflat building that was originally constructed in 1950. Despite its age, the property has been maintained and updated over the years, as evidenced by the energy label C rating and the installation of HR-glass windows for improved insulation. The total official living area measures 37 square meters, with an additional 12 square meters of other indoor space on the third floor and a 3 square meter balcony.

Nieuw-Engeland is a popular residential neighborhood known for its characteristic streets and abundance of green spaces. The location offers the best of both worlds: peaceful residential living with the vibrant city life just around the corner. Majellapark is within walking distance, providing residents with a pleasant green area for relaxation and recreation. The neighborhood has a variety of cozy cafes, restaurants, and eateries where residents can enjoy a coffee, a drink, or a meal.

The practical aspects of the location are equally impressive. By bicycle, residents can reach Utrecht Central Station or the bustling city center within approximately five minutes. For those who travel by car, the A2 and A12 motorways are easily accessible. Daily groceries can be obtained at the shopping plaza on the Groeneweg, which is conveniently close to the apartment.

The building features a central closed entrance on the ground floor, equipped with mailboxes and an intercom system. Storage units are located at the rear of the building and can be reached via a closed gate. The apartment itself comes with a separate freestanding stone storage unit measuring 4 square meters, providing valuable additional space for storing bicycles, garden furniture, or other belongings.

Upon entering the apartment on the second floor, you are welcomed by a hallway that houses the meter cupboard and a separate toilet. The living room is pleasantly bright thanks to the large windows, creating a warm and modern atmosphere. An open staircase in the living room adds character to the space while providing access to the third floor.

The compact kitchen is practically arranged and equipped with basic amenities, including a connection for a washing machine. While modest in size, the kitchen fulfills all essential requirements for daily meal preparation.

The first bedroom is located on the second floor and has direct access to the bathroom. The bathroom is fitted with a shower and a washbasin, providing the necessary facilities. From both the kitchen and through the sliding doors of the bedroom, residents can access the balcony, which offers a pleasant outdoor space to enjoy the sun throughout the day.

The third floor is accessible via the fixed staircase in the living room. This open space is currently used as a second bedroom. It is important to note that due to the lack of sufficient window surface, this area is not included in the official living area calculation. However, it serves as a practical extra room with electrical connections, including a provision for a dryer. This additional space significantly enhances the usability of the apartment despite its modest official square meterage.

Heating and hot water are provided by a CV combi boiler. The installed boiler is an Intergas model from 2009 that runs on gas and is owned by the current seller. The property features natural ventilation and has TV cable connections available.

The apartment is subject to a municipal ground lease (erfpacht), but the ground rent (canon) has been paid off for the entire duration, meaning no periodic ground lease payments are required. This is a favorable financial aspect for future owners.

The service costs for the apartment building amount to approximately 188 euros per month. The homeowners association (VvE) is properly organized and registered with the Chamber of Commerce. The VvE holds annual meetings, collects periodic contributions, maintains a reserve fund, has a maintenance plan in place, and has arranged building insurance. These elements indicate a well-managed building with attention to long-term maintenance.

An important condition to consider is the self-occupation requirement (zelfbewoningsplicht) that applies until and including May 2029. During this period, renting out the property is not permitted. This requirement is designed to maintain the residential character of the neighborhood and is common in certain urban areas.

Parking in the area is regulated and requires a permit. There is no private parking space associated with the apartment, which is typical for apartments in this part of Utrecht.

The current owner describes living in the apartment as pleasant, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere on the street and balcony despite the proximity to the city center. They mention being able to reach the inner city or the train station platform within ten minutes. The apartment is described as sunny, with enjoyable breakfasts in the morning sun and afternoons spent on the balcony watching the birds. The new staircase to the upper floor has transformed the apartment into a spacious-feeling home with ample storage space and potential.

With an asking price of 315,000 euros (costs for the buyer), this apartment represents an opportunity for starters to enter the Utrecht housing market in a location that offers both livability and convenience. The combination of two bedrooms, a balcony, external storage, and a central location makes this a practical choice for those beginning their homeownership journey.