Indoor Living Space vs Outdoor Space

Since I have been living in an apt either in Manhattan or just outside for the last 13 years-- I have a skewed look at both of these factors.

I am used to small spaces and little to no outdoor space.

We saw a house we loved from the inside-- yes, needs cosmetic changes, etc. but the layout and the rooms were PERFECT.

It is in a gated community, where there are all single family homes, and there are like 15 to 20 different models.

Because it's a private community, there are a ton of amenities. Indoor/outdoor pool, playground, common grassy areas, gym, basketball courts, clubhouse, cafe/market... They also have baby classes, and other kids classes like sports and swimming on site. It has a ton of young families just like us-- moving from the city, etc. We already know several people living there, or who just bought and there are only 260 homes here. There is also a shuttle service to Metro North, so we wouldn't need a second car right away.

Anyway-- I am wrestling with the fact that the only outdoor space this house has (which is 3200 sq feet btw!), has a small deck off the kitchen and a grassy "knoll" outside, which is common space-- as other houses are also on this "green". It's kinda like a courtyard. The garage and driveway is in the back of the house-- my other issue, so you don't "drive up to your home". Eta-- there is also a front porch you can also sit on.

Since we have these other amnenities, and we are used to city living-- I think we can forgo the private outside space but I don't want to be mad we bought here. The Pros list is LOOOONG... the cons is short. But they are big.

Anyone have experiences to share? I cannot imagine us growing out of the living space ever.

Message edited 5/2/2010 9:51:46 AM.

Re: Indoor Living Space vs Outdoor Space

Coming from someone used to city living, if I were buying a house, a fair amount of private outdoor space would be a must to me....even with all the wonderful amenities you described

I consider that one of the perks of owning/renting outside of the city and wouldn't want to settle on that...even if the house is perfect...JMO

Message edited 5/2/2010 1:24:04 PM.

Re: Indoor Living Space vs Outdoor Space

I grew up in a co-op in Queens so I know what it's like to not have yard space. One of my reasons for buying a house instead of a condo or co-op is because I wanted the backyard. If this isn't that you need to have, then you should be fine. I do think though that it might hurt you in resale when people see there isn't much backyard.

Re: Indoor Living Space vs Outdoor Space

I think a big point of having a house (IMO of course!) is to have a yard and to be able to do all those kinds of outdoor "house things" yourself.

I also could see a lot of cons of living in a private gated community, especially in regards to privacy, not being able to change stuff, etc.