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The Grape Street Curse Strikes Again |
This particular property in north central Boulder checked a lot of boxes:
- Larger than typical lot, allowing more flexibility for expansion
- South facing (better for passive and active solar, plus smaller solar shadows)
- Low traffic street
- Well maintained but otherwise unimproved (why pay for renovations that you will gut)
- Mid 1950's construction (which the city is not yet making efforts to preserve)
Unfortunately, the back half of the lot was in the moderate risk flood plain. But by itself, that wasn't the deal killer. The deal killer were the power lines.
This particular house not only has the usual backyard distribution lines, it also has the Grape Street Curse: massive towers with looming transmission lines overhead. To make matters worse, a distribution branch for a perpendicular street ran directly next to the house. In other words, the house was penned in by power lines.
Distribution branch directly adjacent to the house |
Note: Obviously, this one won't work for my clients. If you happen to know of a house that might and is not yet on market, please reach out to me.
Due diligence tips:
- Flood maps, current and proposed
- Electrical distribution and transmission lines
- Compatible Development regulations
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The ideas and strategies described in this blog are the opinion of the writer and subject to business, economic, and competitive uncertainties. We strongly recommend conducting rigorous due diligence and obtaining professional advice before buying or selling real estate.