Charming Split-Level Apartment on Vaartweg in Hilversum Center
Key Features
Upsides
- The property is located in the center of Hilversum near shops, restaurants, and cafes, with the central station only a 15-minute walk away for easy access to Amsterdam and Utrecht.
- The apartment features a unique and practical split-level layout with a private entrance on the ground floor and the main living areas on the first floor, including a closed balcony and a natural stone fireplace.
- The apartment is immediately available for move-in, making it ideal for buyers who need quick housing accommodation.
Downsides
- The Owners Association (VvE) is still in formation, meaning the legal and administrative organization is not yet fully established.
- Utility costs for gas, water, and electricity are currently settled based on shares (breukdelen) rather than individual consumption, which may lead to less fair cost distribution.
- The property is sold under an 'as is, where is' clause, meaning the buyer accepts the property in its current state including any potential defects.
Description
Situated on the Vaartweg, right on the edge of the bustling center of Hilversum, this charming and distinctive two-room apartment offers a unique living experience. The property encompasses a net floor area of 60 square meters and is spread across two levels, specifically the ground floor and the first floor. Built in 1935, this residence holds historical value and is located within a protected cityscape known as Hilversum, Noordwestelijk Villagebied. This location ensures that the architectural integrity and the ambiance of the neighborhood are preserved, providing a pleasant environment for residents. The apartment serves as an ideal base for anyone wishing to live in Hilversum, offering the perfect balance between urban convenience and residential comfort.
The location is one of the most significant features of this property. The center of Hilversum, often referred to as the shopping heart of the Gooi, is literally just around the corner. Residents have immediate access to a wide variety of shops, ranging from daily necessities to specialty boutiques. Furthermore, the area is vibrant with numerous cozy cafes and restaurants, offering plenty of options for dining out or enjoying a coffee in a social setting. For those who commute or travel frequently, the central station is conveniently located at approximately a 15-minute walking distance. This station provides excellent connections, allowing travelers to reach major surrounding cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, Amersfoort, and Almere within about 30 minutes. This connectivity makes the apartment highly suitable for working professionals who need access to the Randstad but prefer to live in a quieter, yet well-connected town.
Entering the property, one arrives at the private entrance located on the ground floor. This level is designed to be highly practical. It houses a separate toilet room which is equipped with a fountain, adding a touch of convenience. Additionally, there is a dedicated wash and storage room on this floor. This space is perfectly configured for the placement of a washing machine and dryer, keeping laundry appliances neatly tucked away from the main living areas. This practical layout ensures that the daily chores of laundry and storage do not interfere with the living spaces upstairs. A staircase leads from the ground floor to the first floor, guiding residents to the main living quarters.
The first floor is where the primary living activities take place. Upon ascending the stairs, one enters a large living room. This space is characterized by the presence of a natural stone fireplace, which serves as a charming focal point and adds a sense of warmth and character to the room. The living room is spacious and offers ample room for a comfortable seating area and a dining table. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a meter cupboard, centralizing the technical management of the apartment's utilities. It is worth noting that the property features a closed balcony, or 'dichtgebouwd balkon', which is accessible from this level. This closed balcony provides additional space that can be utilized as a sitting area or a sunroom, effectively extending the living area and allowing residents to enjoy the natural light while being sheltered from the elements.
The first floor also accommodates the sleeping quarters. The large bedroom is a comfortable retreat, featuring two fixed closets that offer generous storage space for clothing and personal belongings. The inclusion of these built-in wardrobes is a practical feature that maximizes the usable floor space in the room. The bathroom is situated on this floor as well and is fitted with a washbasin and a shower cabin. The presence of a separate toilet on the ground floor creates a practical layout where the facilities are distributed, which can be beneficial when the apartment is occupied by multiple people or guests.
Regarding the technical specifications and energy performance, the apartment has an energy label D. Given the construction year of 1935, this label reflects the energy efficiency status of the property at this time. The heating is provided via block heating, which is a system often used in apartment complexes where heat is generated centrally and distributed to the individual units. Hot water is provided by a central heating boiler (CV-ketel). The volume of the apartment is 200 cubic meters, contributing to the sense of space within the 60 square meters of floor area.
An important aspect of purchasing this apartment is the legal and administrative structure regarding the Homeowners Association, known in the Netherlands as the VvE (Vereniging van Eigenaren). The listing states that the VvE is currently in formation. This means that the legal entity governing the building is not yet fully established. However, there are plans in place to ensure it is professionally managed by Kappelle Vastgoedbeheer B.V., a firm based in Hilversum. A positive aspect is that a Maintenance Plan, or MJOP (Meerjaren Onderhoudsplan), has already been created. This document outlines the expected maintenance and associated costs for the building over the coming years, which is crucial for financial planning and maintaining the value of the property.
The financial obligations associated with the VvE and utilities are transparent. The estimated VvE service costs are around 165 euros per month. In addition to this, there is an advance payment for gas, water, and electricity of approximately 230 euros per month. It is important for potential buyers to note that the actual settlement of these utility costs is currently based on 'breukdelen', which translates to shares or fractions. This implies that the total consumption of the building is divided among the owners based on a predetermined percentage (breukdeel) rather than based on individual meter readings. This is a common system in older apartment buildings but is something to be aware of as the costs may not directly correlate with personal usage habits.
The acceptance of the property can be arranged per direct, meaning the apartment is available for immediate occupancy. This is an excellent feature for those who are in a hurry to move or do not wish to wait for a long closing period. The sales process will be handled using the standard NVM purchase agreement model from 2023. However, a specific clause will be added to this agreement. This is the 'as is, where is' clause. This clause has significant implications for the buyer. It means that the property is sold in the condition it is in at the time of transfer. The buyer accepts all visible and hidden defects and cannot hold the seller liable for any issues that may be discovered later, provided they were or could have been known during the inspection process. This underscores the importance of conducting a thorough technical inspection before finalizing the purchase.
Parking for the apartment is facilitated through public parking and parking permits. As the property is located on a busy road and in the center, parking spaces can be in high demand. The availability of parking permits allows residents to park their vehicles in the designated areas in the vicinity of the building. It is advisable to check the current waiting times and regulations for parking permits in Hilversum with the local municipality to ensure this aligns with your needs.
In summary, this apartment on Vaartweg presents a compelling opportunity for those seeking a home in the heart of Hilversum. The combination of a central location near shops and eateries, the excellent public transport connections to major cities, and the unique layout spanning two floors makes it a distinctive property. The practical features such as the separate laundry room, the closed balcony, and the storage in the bedroom add to the daily comfort. While the VvE is still being formed and the utility billing is based on shares, the presence of a professional manager and a maintenance plan provides a solid foundation for the future. The inclusion of an 'as is, where is' clause requires careful consideration, but for the right buyer, this apartment offers a charming and functional base in one of the most desirable locations in the Gooi.
Features
Bathroom
Shower
The listing explicitly mentions a 'douchecabine' (shower cabin) in the bathroom on the first floor.
Bathtub
The listing specifies a 'douchecabine' (shower cabin) and makes no mention of a bathtub.
Ensuite Bathroom
The description lists the bathroom and bedroom separately on the first floor without stating they are connected directly (en suite).
Guest Toilet
The description states there is a 'separaat toilet' (separate toilet) on the ground floor.
Bidet
There is no mention of a bidet in the listing.
Rain Shower
The listing mentions a shower cabin but does not specify if it is a rain shower.
Double Shower
The listing mentions a 'douchecabine' (singular) and does not indicate a double shower setup.
Shared Shower
The property is a private apartment with its own bathroom facilities, not a shared house.
Shared Toilet
The property is a private apartment with its own sanitary facilities, not a shared house.
His And Hers Sinks
The features list mentions 'wastafel' (singular), implying a single sink.
Building General
Corner Property
Exterior
Balcony
The listing mentions a 'dichtgebouwd balkon' (enclosed balcony), which means the balcony has been closed off and is no longer an open outdoor space.
Rear Garden
The listing is for an apartment on the ground and first floor in the city center with no mention of a private garden.
Front Garden
The listing is for an apartment in the city center with no mention of a private garden.
Side Garden
The listing is for an apartment with no mention of a private garden.
Terrace
The listing describes an enclosed balcony but does not mention a terrace.
Rooftop Terrace
The listing is for an apartment on the first floor with no mention of a rooftop terrace.
Barbecue Area
There is no mention of outdoor space or facilities suitable for a barbecue area.
Fenced Yard
The property is an apartment in the city center, not a house with a fenced yard.
Patio
There is no mention of a patio in the listing.
Veranda
The property mentions a 'dichtgebouwd balkon' (enclosed balcony) but does not use the term veranda, and it implies an indoor extension.
Guest House
The property is a 60m² apartment; there is no space or mention of a guest house.
Kitchen Garden
There is no mention of a garden or vegetable plot.
Equestrian Facilities
This is a city center apartment with no mention of equestrian facilities.
Small Livestock Facilities
This is a city center apartment with no mention of livestock facilities.
Private Outdoor Pool
No pool is mentioned in the listing for this apartment.
Private Outdoor Jacuzzi
No jacuzzi is mentioned in the listing.
Private Tennis Court
No tennis court is mentioned in the listing.
Remarkable Mountain View
The Netherlands is generally flat, and Hilversum has no mountains.
Remarkable City View
Located on the first floor in the city center near a busy road. The view is likely obstructed by other buildings and the street rather than offering a remarkable panorama.
Remarkable Garden View
There is no private garden, and it is a city center location.
Remarkable Sea View
Hilversum is inland, far from the sea.
Remarkable Harbour View
There is no mention of a harbour view.
Remarkable Landmark View
The property is located in a protected cityscape ('Noordwestelijk Villagebied'), but being on the first floor likely limits views of specific landmarks.
Interior Comfort
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is not mentioned in the features or description, and it is uncommon in 60 m² apartments from 1935 in this region. The listing only mentions natural ventilation.
Central Heating
The features section explicitly lists 'Blokverwarming' (block heating) as the heating method.
Fireplace
The description explicitly states the living room has a 'natuurstenen schouw' (natural stone mantel/fireplace).
Underfloor Heating
The heating system is specified as 'Blokverwarming', which typically utilizes radiators in buildings of this age, not underfloor heating.
Walk In Closet
The bedroom is described as having 'twee vaste kasten' (two fixed closets), not a walk-in closet.
Home Office
The apartment is a 2-room unit (living room and bedroom). There is no mention or space for a dedicated home office.
Exposed Beams
There is no mention of exposed beams, which are not typical for the interior finish of 1930s city apartments in Hilversum.
Private Indoor Pool
The apartment is 60 m²; a private indoor pool is physically impossible.
Private Indoor Sauna
The apartment is 60 m² and there is no mention of a sauna.
Built-In Wardrobes
The listing explicitly mentions a large bedroom with 'twee vaste kasten' (two fixed closets).
Interior Style
Scandinavian
The apartment is located in a 1935 building in a protected cityscape with a natural stone fireplace, which contradicts the minimalist, modern aesthetic typical of Scandinavian design.
Modern
The building dates back to 1935 and is a protected monument, and the description emphasizes characteristic features like a mantelpiece, suggesting a traditional layout rather than a modern one.
Industrial
There is no mention of industrial features such as exposed pipes, brickwork, or open spaces; the property is a standard 1930s apartment.
Mediterranean
The property is in the Netherlands, built in 1935, and shows no architectural features (like white stucco, terracotta roofs, or courtyards) typical of Mediterranean style.
Classic
Built in 1935, situated in a protected cityscape, and featuring a natural stone mantel, the apartment retains traditional architectural elements consistent with a classic style.
Exterior Style
Traditional Historic
Built in 1935 and situated in a protected cityscape, indicating a traditional historic style.
Early 20th Century
The construction year is 1935, which places it firmly in the early 20th century architectural style (often 'Jaren 30' style in the Netherlands).
Post War Functional
The building was constructed in 1935, which is before World War II.
Modernist
While the 1930s saw modernist architecture, this listing describes the apartment as 'charmant' and part of a protected village area, usually implying a more traditional style than strict modernism.
Newly Build
The listing explicitly states the building year is 1935 and classifies it as 'Bestaande bouw' (Existing construction).
Kitchen
Shared Kitchen
The listing is for a private apartment (tweekamerappartement) with its own entrance, not a shared housing facility.
Design Kitchen
The apartment is described as 'functional' and dates back to 1935, with an 'as is, where is' clause, suggesting a standard rather than a high-end design kitchen.
New Kitchen
The building is from 1935 and is sold 'as is', implying the kitchen is likely dated or original rather than new.
Parking & Storage
Parking
The features list 'Openbaar parkeren en parkeervergunningen' (public parking and parking permits), indicating there is no dedicated private parking spot.
Storage Room
The description explicitly mentions a 'praktische was-/bergruimte' (practical washing/storage room) on the ground floor.
Garage
No garage is mentioned anywhere in the listing.
Automatic Garage Door
There is no garage, so there is no automatic garage door.
Double Garage
There is no garage, so there is no double garage.
Attic
The apartment is spread over the ground floor and first floor with no mention of an attic.
Cellar
No cellar is mentioned in the layout or features.
Covered Parking
Only public parking and permits are mentioned, with no reference to covered parking.
Underground Parking
Only public parking and permits are mentioned, with no reference to underground parking.
Ev Charging
No EV charging station or infrastructure is mentioned in the listing.
Workshop
No workshop is mentioned in the listing.
Shed
No shed is mentioned in the listing.
Street Parking Free
The listing specifies 'parkeervergunningen' (parking permits), which typically indicates that street parking is regulated and not free in this city center location.
Street Parking Permit
The features explicitly list 'parkeervergunningen' (parking permits).
Rules
Owners Association
The listing states that the VvE (owners association) is in formation and mentions VvE service costs of €165 per month.
Leasehold
The listing specifies 'Volle eigendom' (full ownership).
Oa Chamber Of Commerce Registered
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Inschrijving KvK: Nee'.
Oa Annual Meeting
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Jaarlijkse vergadering: Nee'.
Oa Fees
The description mentions VvE service costs of €165 per month, although the checklist states 'Periodieke bijdrage: Nee', likely because the VvE is still in formation.
Oa Reserve Fund
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Reservefonds aanwezig: Nee'.
Oa Maintenance Plan
The description states there is an MJOP (multi-year maintenance plan), although the checklist states 'Onderhoudsplan: Nee'.
Oa Buildings Insurance
The VvE checklist explicitly states 'Opstalverzekering: Nee'.
Other Rules
The purchase agreement will include an 'As is, where is' clause.
Safety & Accessibility
Elevator
The apartment is on the ground and first floor of a 1935 building, and no elevator is mentioned.
Private Entrance
The listing explicitly states 'Eigen entree' (private entrance) on the ground floor.
Automatic Gate
The apartment is located in the city center with a ground floor entrance; an automatic gate is highly unlikely and not mentioned.
Gated Community
The apartment is situated in a city center protected cityscape, not a gated community.
Wheelchair Accessible
The main living areas, bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen are located on the first floor and require climbing stairs from the ground floor entrance.
Utilities & Technical
Washing Machine Connections
The description explicitly mentions 'opstelling voor wasmachine', indicating the presence of connections and space for a washing machine.
Laundry Room
The listing describes a 'praktische was-/bergruimte' (practical laundry/storage room) on the ground floor.
Ventilation System
The features section explicitly lists 'Natuurlijke ventilatie' (Natural ventilation) as a provision.
Energy Efficiency
Solar Panels
Not mentioned in the listing. Given the 1935 construction year and block heating system, it is highly unlikely to have solar panels.
Triple Glazing
Not mentioned in the listing. A 1935 building with an energy label D and block heating is extremely unlikely to have triple glazing.
Wall Insulation
The listing explicitly states 'Muurisolatie' (wall insulation) under the Energy/Isolation section.
Heat Pump
The listing explicitly states the heating is 'Blokverwarming' (block heating) and hot water is provided by a 'Cv-ketel' (boiler). No heat pump is present.
Home Battery
Not mentioned in the listing. Home batteries are exceptionally rare in 1935 apartment complexes with block heating.
Other Energy Efficiency Measures
No other specific energy efficiency measures are listed besides wall insulation. The property relies on natural ventilation.
Location
History
No history available for this listing.