Buying a House on a Main Road: Pros and Cons

Buying a House on a Main Road: Pros and Cons

Fact checked by Suzanne KvilhaugReviewed by Thomas J. Catalano

Although you might assume that most people would want to avoid buying a house on a main road, there are actually pros to consider along with the cons. If you among those who would never seriously consider buying a house on a main road, you are not alone. However, let’s take a look at both the downsides and upsides to buying a house a main road.

Key Takeaways

• You should compare the pros and cons of living on a main road with your personal lifestyle preferences.
• Advantages include good access to transportation, more shopping and school choices, and better safety.
• Among the the downsides are noise, a lack of privacy, pollution, and resale value.
• If you decide main street living is for you, tell your real estate agent. If you find a house you like, make sure the price you offer takes into account that likely smaller pool of available buyers when you eventually sell.

Pros of Buying a House on a Main Road

If you like being part of a stimulating environment and value convenience, a house on a main road might be to your liking.

It’s Where the Action Is

A main road in any town will be busy. This means a lot of cars driving past and people on the sidewalk. If you love hustle and bustle, this could be a big plus.

Easy Access to Transportation and Recreation

Bus stops, train stations, and bike and walking trails are all often located near main thoroughfares. If transportation and recreational access mean a lot to you, centralized living could be a real advantage. Main roads also often provide direct access to major transportation arteries, including highways, freeways, and public transit routes.

This accessibility can significantly reduce commute times and make it easier to travel to different areas within the city or region. For example, consider how much longer a commute may be to work if you need to go to the office every day if you’re stuck in a city but not near an interstate.

More Businesses, Schools and Security

Main roads are better lit and have more shopping options, school choices, fire stations, and often a stronger police presence. The ability to walk to stores and to feel more safe and secure is enhanced in areas where there are more people. 

Residents living on main roads (or busier roads) may also have more opportunities to interact with neighbors and participate in community events or activities. This sense of connectedness can contribute to better neighborhood watches or more active security along the road.

Good Street Maintenance

Cul-de-sacs and side streets do not get the attention main roads get because they don’t get the traffic. Main roads are plowed first when there is snow. Potholes may get filled first and, when it’s time to resurface, busy streets get first dibs. Generally speaking, main roads will garner the attention of local governments when needed because they are more important in facilitating movement in the city.

Pricing Discount

Because most people prefer less traffic and noise than is found on a main road, houses on busy streets tend to sell at a discount. This can be an advantage for buyers without kids or pets. According to Mark Ferguson of InvestFourMore, a house on a busy street can be as much as 20% cheaper compared to a similar house on a quiet street.

Important

Keep in mind that you are choosing where you will live for the next several years and it should feel like home, not a trap.

Cons of Buying a House on a Main Road

If an up-tempo lifestyle does not appeal to you—or even if it does—the cons listed here may be enough to discourage you.

Noise

Noise is probably the primary objection people have to living on a main road. Although well-insulated windows and doors can help, you will be able to tell the difference. Living on a main road exposes residents to higher levels of noise from traffic, including vehicle engines, horns, sirens, and general road noise. If noise matters a lot to you, a busy street does not make sense.

Lack of Privacy

All those neighbors walking past and even people in cars will look your way and, especially when it gets dark, into your windows. Noise from the road and nearby activities can further diminish the feeling of seclusion within the property. If privacy is a major concern, living on a main street may stress you out.

Dust and Pollution

No doubt about it, a house on a busy street is subject to more dust, automobile exhaust, and other forms of pollution. If you are particularly sensitive to air quality—especially if you don’t have a good air filtration system in your house—this could be a problem.

Properties located on main roads may also incur higher maintenance costs due to exposure to environmental factors and road-related debris. Exterior surfaces, such as windows, siding, and landscaping, may require more frequent cleaning and upkeep to maintain their appearance and functionality. Additionally, the wear and tear caused by traffic can potentially lead to increased maintenance expenses for local authorities.

Parking

People who live on side streets can often park extra vehicles on the street. This is not always the case when you live on a main road. In addition, even if you are able to find parking on the side of the road, you may be at higher risk of your car being hit. If you have more cars than your garage and driveway can handle, parking might be an issue.

Resale Value

The advantage in the prior section is the same disadvantage in this section. Though you may be able to buy your home for cheaper when you’re the buyer, you may be forced to sell your home for cheaper when it comes time to sell.

How Does Living on a Main Street Affect Property Values?

Property values on main streets may vary depending on factors such as location, noise levels, traffic patterns, and nearby amenities. In some cases, homes on main streets may appreciate faster due to high demand, while in others, they may face challenges with resale due to perceived drawbacks.

Are There Any Zoning Regulations or Restrictions That Affect Properties on Main Streets?

Zoning regulations and restrictions that affect properties on main streets can vary depending on local ordinances and planning policies. Some areas may have restrictions on commercial activities or building heights, while others may encourage mixed-use development to enhance street life.

How Do Property Taxes for Homes on Main Streets Compare to Those in Quieter Residential Areas?

Property taxes for homes on main streets may vary depending on factors such as location, property value, and local tax policies. In some cases, homes on main streets may have higher property taxes due to higher assessed values or additional fees for commercial zoning. In general, a home may not simply have a lower property tax assessment strictly based on the fact that the property resides on a main street.

What Steps Can I Take to Increase Privacy and Security When Living on a Main Street?

To increase privacy and security when living on a main street, consider measures such as installing privacy fencing or landscaping, using window treatments, installing security cameras or alarm systems, and forming neighborhood watch groups.

The Bottom Line

Living on a main road offers advantages such as enhanced accessibility, visibility, and convenience, but it also comes with drawbacks including noise pollution, safety concerns, potential privacy issues, and challenges with parking and resale value.

Read the original article on Investopedia.