Characterful Ground Floor Apartment with Terrace in Rotterdam Center
Key Features
Upsides
- Excellent central location within five minutes walking distance to Rotterdam Central Station and close to restaurants, coffee bars, and the Hofbogen area.
- Energy Label A rating with full insulation and a modern 2021 Remeha boiler with underfloor heating throughout, resulting in low energy costs for a 1895 building.
- Full property ownership (volle eigendom) meaning no leasehold ground rent payments, combined with completed foundation repair eliminating a major structural concern.
- Rare 15-square-meter terrace at the rear of the property, providing private outdoor space that is uncommon for central city apartments.
- Well-organized Homeowners Association with proper registration, reserve fund, maintenance plan, and building insurance in place.
Downsides
- The apartment is a ground floor unit (benedenwoning) with an open portiek, which typically means less privacy and potential noise from the common entrance area and street level.
- Parking in the area requires paid parking or a parking permit, which adds ongoing costs and potential inconvenience for car owners.
- At 689,000 euros for approximately 98 square meters of living space, the price per square meter of 7,031 euros is relatively high for a two-bedroom apartment.
- Monthly VvE contribution of 182 euros is a recurring expense that buyers need to factor into their ongoing housing costs.
- The building dates from 1895 and while major updates have been made, older buildings can still present unexpected maintenance issues despite renovations.
Description
The property at Schiekade 628-A is located in a building called SchieStaete I, constructed in 1895. This ground floor apartment spans two levels: the main floor (bel-etage) and a high basement (souterrain). The total living area measures approximately 98 square meters, with an additional 2 square meters of other indoor space. The building has a preserved historic facade that maintains the character of the original construction period.
The apartment features a modern kitchen equipped with built-in appliances, suitable for cooking enthusiasts. The bathroom has been finished to contemporary standards and includes a shower, bathtub, and washbasin. Additionally, there are two separate toilets in the property, providing convenience for residents and guests.
One notable feature is the terrace at the rear of the property, measuring approximately 15 square meters. This outdoor space offers a private area for relaxation in what is typically a dense urban environment. Having a terrace of this size in the center of Rotterdam is relatively uncommon and adds to the living quality of the apartment.
The property benefits from comprehensive insulation, resulting in an Energy Label A rating. This is particularly notable for a building from 1895, as it indicates significant investment in energy efficiency measures. The heating system consists of a Remeha gas-fired combination boiler installed in 2021, which provides both central heating and hot water. The entire apartment has underfloor heating, which contributes to even heat distribution and comfort throughout the living spaces.
An important structural consideration that has already been addressed is the foundation repair, which was carried out several years ago. Foundation issues are common in older buildings in Dutch cities, particularly those built on soft soil near waterways. Having this remediation completed removes a significant potential concern for buyers.
The apartment includes three rooms in total, with two designated as bedrooms. The layout across two levels allows for clear separation between living and sleeping areas, which can enhance the functionality of the space compared to single-level apartments of similar size.
The property is held in full ownership (volle eigendom), meaning the land beneath the building is owned outright rather than being held on a leasehold (erfpacht) arrangement. This eliminates future ground rent payments and provides greater security of tenure.
The monthly contribution to the Homeowners Association (Vereniging van Eigenaars) is 182 euros. The VvE is properly registered with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), holds annual general meetings, maintains a reserve fund, has a maintenance plan in place, and has arranged building insurance. These are all positive indicators of well-managed shared ownership.
The location of Schiekade 628-A is in the northern part of Rotterdam's city center, on the border between the Provenierswijk and Agniesebuurt neighborhoods. This area has undergone significant transformation in recent years and is now known for its vibrant character with various restaurants, coffee bars, and other hospitality venues within walking distance. The nearby Hofbogen area offers a unique mix of shops and dining options.
Transportation connections are excellent. Rotterdam Central Station can be reached in approximately five minutes on foot, providing access to national and international rail services, as well as metro and bus connections. For motorists, the ring road is easily accessible, and the city center is just a few minutes away by bicycle.
Parking in the area is regulated, with options for paid parking, public parking spaces, and parking permits available to residents. This is standard for central urban locations in Dutch cities.
The asking price is 689,000 euros, which translates to approximately 7,031 euros per square meter of living space. The delivery date is to be agreed upon between buyer and seller.
The listing notes that the selling agent represents the seller, and prospective buyers are advised to engage their own real estate agent for guidance through the purchasing process. This is standard practice in Dutch real estate transactions and ensures buyers receive independent advice.
The combination of historical character, modern amenities, energy efficiency, and central location positions this property as a distinctive option in the Rotterdam housing market. The ground floor configuration with a terrace offers a lifestyle that bridges indoor and outdoor living, which is particularly valued in urban settings.
The building's age brings inherent character through elements like the preserved facade, while the interior renovations have updated the essential systems and finishes to current standards. This balance between historical preservation and modernization is a defining characteristic of the property.
For potential buyers, the property offers a move-in ready home in a location that provides both the conveniences of city living and the comfort of a well-appointed private residence. The proximity to transportation, dining, shopping, and cultural venues creates a lifestyle opportunity that aligns with contemporary urban living preferences.
The two-bedroom configuration makes the apartment suitable for various household types, from professionals working in the city to small families or couples who value extra space for a home office or guest room.
The heating infrastructure deserves additional attention given its relevance to ongoing living costs and comfort. The combination of a modern, efficient boiler with underfloor heating throughout the apartment creates a system that can provide consistent warmth while potentially keeping energy costs manageable. Underfloor heating also eliminates the need for radiators on walls, which can free up space for furniture placement and interior design choices.
The insulation measures that achieved the Energy Label A rating likely include improvements to walls, roof, floors, and windows. For a building of this age, such comprehensive insulation work represents a significant investment that benefits future owners through reduced energy consumption and improved thermal comfort throughout the seasons.
The property's position on the ground floor and high basement levels means there are no stairs to climb within the building's common areas, which can be advantageous for residents with mobility considerations or those who simply prefer the convenience of street-level access. However, there will be internal stairs between the two living levels within the apartment itself.
The 15-square-meter terrace provides meaningful outdoor living space. In practical terms, this is sufficient for outdoor dining furniture, some potted plants, and comfortable seating. The description notes that this outdoor space offers a peaceful retreat despite the central urban location, suggesting some degree of screening or orientation that minimizes street noise and maintains privacy.
The surrounding neighborhood context adds value to the property. The Provenierswijk and Agniesebuurt areas have developed reputations as desirable residential districts with strong community identities and ongoing improvements to public spaces and amenities. The proximity to the Hofbogen project, which has transformed former railway infrastructure into a mixed-use destination, reflects the area's evolution and its appeal to a diverse population.
Rotterdam's overall housing market dynamics also provide context for evaluating this property. The city has experienced significant population growth and economic development in recent years, which has increased demand for well-located housing. Properties that combine character, modern amenities, and central locations tend to maintain their value and appeal across market cycles.
The purchase price of 689,000 euros positions this apartment in the upper segment of the Rotterdam market, reflecting its attributes and location. Buyers considering this property will weigh these factors against alternatives in the same price range, which might include larger apartments in less central locations or smaller apartments in even more prime locations.
The fact that the foundation repair has been completed is particularly noteworthy. Foundation problems are a well-known issue in many Dutch cities, especially in older buildings near water. The cost of foundation repair can be substantial, and the process can be disruptive to residents. Having this work already completed provides peace of mind and eliminates a potentially major future expense.
Features
Bathroom
Shower
Explicitly listed under bathroom facilities ('Douche').
Bathtub
Explicitly listed under bathroom facilities ('ligbad').
Guest Toilet
The listing mentions '2 aparte toiletten' (2 separate toilets) in addition to the main bathroom.
Bidet
Not mentioned and highly uncommon in Dutch apartments.
Double Shower
Only a singular shower ('Douche') is listed.
Shared Shower
The property is a private apartment ('Benedenwoning'), not a shared living arrangement.
Shared Toilet
The property is a private apartment, so the toilets are not shared with other households.
His And Hers Sinks
Only a single sink ('wastafel') is explicitly mentioned.
Bathroom Heated Floor
The listing specifies 'gehele vloerverwarming' (entire underfloor heating) for the property.
Building General
Corner Property
Exterior
Balcony
No balcony is mentioned in the listing. The outdoor space described is a 'zonneterras' (sun terrace), which is classified as such.
Rear Garden
No rear garden is mentioned. The listing only mentions a terrace at the rear ('aan de achterzijde').
Front Garden
No front garden is mentioned in the listing.
Side Garden
No side garden is mentioned in the listing.
Terrace
The listing mentions a 'zonneterras' (sun terrace) of approximately 14-15 m² at the rear of the property.
Rooftop Terrace
No rooftop terrace is mentioned. The property is on the bel-etage and high basement.
Barbecue Area
No barbecue area is mentioned in the listing.
Fenced Yard
No fenced yard is mentioned in the listing.
Patio
The terrace could be considered a patio, but it is specifically described as a 'zonneterras' which fits the terrace category better.
Veranda
No veranda is mentioned in the listing.
Guest House
No guest house is mentioned. This is a 3-room apartment.
Waterfront
The property is on Schiekade, which is a canal/waterway in Rotterdam. However, no explicit waterfront living is emphasized.
Kitchen Garden
No kitchen garden is mentioned.
Equestrian Facilities
This is an urban apartment in Rotterdam. No equestrian facilities mentioned.
Small Livestock Facilities
This is an urban apartment. No livestock facilities mentioned.
Private Outdoor Pool
No pool is mentioned. This would be unusual for a city apartment.
Private Outdoor Jacuzzi
No jacuzzi is mentioned in the listing.
Private Tennis Court
No tennis court is mentioned. This would be unusual for an urban apartment.
Remarkable Mountain View
Rotterdam is in the lowlands. No mountains in view.
Remarkable City View
The property is in the heart of Rotterdam, on the border of Provenierswijk and Agniesebuurt, close to the city center. Some city views may be possible, but not explicitly emphasized.
Remarkable Garden View
No gardens are mentioned. The property has a terrace and is located in a city.
Remarkable Sea View
Rotterdam is an inland city. The sea is not nearby.
Remarkable Harbour View
Rotterdam is famous for its harbour, and the property is near the canal (Schiekade), but no explicit harbour view is mentioned.
Remarkable Landmark View
The property is in a historic building from 1895 with a 'statige, perfect behouden gevel' (stately, perfectly preserved facade). However, no specific landmarks are mentioned as visible from the property.
Interior Comfort
Central Heating
HR CV-combiketel (Remeha, 2021) provides heating. Listed as 'Verwarming: Cv-ketel' and 'Cv-ketel: Remeha (gas gestookt combiketel uit 2021, eigendom)'.
Fireplace
Not mentioned in the listing description or specifications.
Underfloor Heating
Listed in specifications: 'Verwarming: Cv-ketel en gehele vloerverwarming' - meaning central heating and whole-floor heating.
Skylight
Not mentioned in listing. No skylights described.
Bay Window
Not mentioned in listing. No bay windows described.
Private Indoor Pool
Not mentioned and would be extremely unusual for a 100m² city apartment. Clearly not present.
Private Indoor Sauna
Not mentioned. Would be unusual for this type of property. Clearly not present.
French Doors
Not mentioned. No doors to terrace described as French doors.
Interior Style
Scandinavian
The listing emphasizes modern luxury and high-quality finishing, but no specific Scandinavian design elements are mentioned. The property is in a historic 1895 building with classical elements.
Modern
Clearly described as a surprisingly modern and luxurious apartment with contemporary bathroom, modern kitchen with built-in appliances, energy label A, and full insulation.
Industrial
While the building dates from 1895 (industrial era) and is called 'SchieStaete I', the description emphasizes the 'stately, perfectly preserved facade' rather than industrial aesthetics. More classic than industrial in presentation.
Mediterranean
Property is located in Rotterdam, Netherlands. No Mediterranean characteristics mentioned. Climate and architectural style are clearly Dutch.
Classic
The building is from 1895 with a 'stately, perfectly preserved facade' called SchieStaete I. The combination of historical charm with modern interior suggests a classic building with contemporary updates. Split-level layout also adds to classic character.
Exterior Style
Traditional Historic
The building dates from 1895 and is described as having a 'statige, perfect behouden gevel' (stately, perfectly preserved facade). It is part of 'SchieStaete I' which suggests a historic character building.
Early 20th Century
The building is from 1895, which is late 19th century. However, in Dutch context, 'jaren-30' (1930s) would be early 20th century. This building predates that period.
Post War Functional
The building is from 1895, well before WWII. Post-war functional architecture would typically be from 1945 onwards.
Modernist
The interior is described as ' verrassend modern en luxe' (surprisingly modern and luxurious). However, the building itself is historic. The modernist style typically refers to the building's architecture, not the interior design.
Newly Build
The building is from 1895, clearly not newly built. However, foundation repair was done recently, and the interior appears modern and recently renovated.
Kitchen
Kitchen Island
No mention of a kitchen island. The apartment is spread across two levels which makes a central island less likely.
Open Plan Kitchen
The listing describes a 3-room apartment (2 bedrooms) across 2 levels, suggesting separate rooms rather than open plan.
Pantry
No mention of a pantry in the listing.
Build In Coffee Maker
Not mentioned in the listing. Such a luxury feature would likely be highlighted if present.
Boiling Water Tap
Not mentioned in the listing. A Quooker or similar would typically be mentioned as a selling point.
Downdraft Extractor
Not mentioned in the listing. This specialized feature would likely be highlighted if present.
Shared Kitchen
This is a private apartment for sale (3-kamer appartement), not shared housing.
Design Kitchen
Described as 'luxe keuken' (luxury kitchen) suggesting high-end design, but no specific designer brand mentioned.
New Kitchen
The building is from 1895 with foundation repair done 'a few years ago', but the exact age of the kitchen renovation is not specified.
Parking & Storage
Parking
Listing mentions paid parking, public parking, and parking permits only - no private parking included.
Garage
No garage mentioned anywhere in the listing.
Automatic Garage Door
No garage exists, so no automatic garage door.
Double Garage
No garage exists, so no double garage.
Attic
Apartment is on ground floor and high basement (souterrain), no attic mentioned.
Cellar
The 'hoge souterrain' is part of the living space (100m² total), not a separate storage cellar.
Covered Parking
No covered parking mentioned in the listing.
Underground Parking
No underground parking mentioned in the listing.
Ev Charging
No EV charging station or facilities mentioned.
Workshop
No workshop mentioned anywhere in the listing.
Shed
No shed mentioned in the listing.
Street Parking Free
Listing explicitly states 'Betaald parkeren' (paid parking), confirming street parking is not free.
Street Parking Permit
Listing explicitly mentions 'parkeervergunningen' (parking permits) as an option.
Parkspot Sale Price
No parking spot is included for sale with the property.
Rules
Owners Association
The listing explicitly states a VvE contribution of € 182 per month.
Leasehold
The listing explicitly states 'Eigen grond' (freehold).
Oa Chamber Of Commerce Registered
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Inschrijving KvK: Ja'.
Oa Annual Meeting
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Jaarlijkse vergadering: Ja'.
Oa Fees
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Periodieke bijdrage: Ja (€ 182,00 per maand)'.
Oa Reserve Fund
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Reservefonds aanwezig: Ja'.
Oa Maintenance Plan
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Onderhoudsplan: Ja'.
Oa Buildings Insurance
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Opstalverzekering: Ja'.
Safety & Accessibility
Elevator
The listing specifies it is a ground floor apartment (Benedenwoning) built in 1895 with an open portiek. Elevators are highly unlikely and not mentioned.
Automatic Gate
There is no mention of a gate, and it is a city center apartment with public parking.
Gated Community
Located in the city center with public and paid parking, and an open portiek entrance.
Wheelchair Accessible
The apartment spans two levels (bel-etage and high basement), which requires navigating internal stairs, making it largely inaccessible for wheelchairs.
Energy Efficiency
Wall Insulation
The listing explicitly states 'Volledig geïsoleerd' (Fully insulated), which for a building from 1895 necessarily includes wall insulation to achieve an Energy Label A.
Floor Insulation
The listing mentions 'Volledig geïsoleerd' (Fully insulated) and 'gehele vloerverwarming' (whole underfloor heating), which requires and implies proper floor insulation for efficiency.
Roof Insulation
The 'Volledig geïsoleerd' (Fully insulated) designation applies to the building envelope. As a ground floor/souterrain apartment, this likely refers to the ceiling insulation towards the upper apartment or the building's roof.
Heat Pump
The listing explicitly states heating and hot water are provided by a 'Cv-ketel' (gas-fired combi boiler) from 2021, with no mention of a heat pump.
Other Energy Efficiency Measures
The listing specifies several other measures.
Location
History
No history available for this listing.