First line or 5–10 minutes from the sea in New Boulevard — which to choose? 🌅
Buying by the sea mixes emotion with practical considerations. In Batumi’s New Boulevard area many buyers wonder whether to pay a premium for seaside frontage or to opt for a quieter location a short walk away. Below you’ll find a balanced comparison, actionable tips, and a viewing checklist.
At a glance
- First line: direct sea view, immediate beach access, higher prestige and price, but more noise and maintenance needs. 🏖️
- 5–10 minutes walk: quieter, often better value for living, still close to the promenade and amenities. 🚶♀️
Advantages and drawbacks of first-line properties
Advantages
- Strong appeal for short-term and holiday rentals thanks to direct sea views.
- Prestigious address can help with resale.
- Often larger terraces and better-designed living rooms oriented to the sea.
Drawbacks
- Higher purchase cost and potentially higher running costs.
- Greater exposure to noise, seasonal crowds and events.
- Salt air accelerates wear on facades and metal parts — factor in maintenance.
Advantages and drawbacks of properties 5–10 minutes away
Advantages
- More peaceful environment for year-round living and families.
- Often lower price with similar access to local shops, cafes and transport.
- Easier parking and calmer courtyard space.
Drawbacks
- No direct sea view and possibly lower demand for nightly rentals.
- Some buyers perceive it as less premium compared to first line.
Key considerations when choosing
1) Purpose of purchase
- For short-term rental investors: first line often brings higher seasonal rates but also higher operational attention.
- For permanent residence: prioritize comfort, parking and community facilities — 5–10 minutes often wins.
2) Building and finishing quality
- Focus on windows, insulation, ventilation and facade protection — these matter more long-term than exact distance.
- Check for double glazing, good balcony sealing and corrosion-resistant materials.
3) Floor and orientation
- First line: higher floors typically offer better views and less street noise.
- 5–10 minutes: southern or western exposure provides better daylight and pleasant breezes.
4) Local infrastructure
- Verify nearby shops, medical services, schools and transport connections within walking distance.
5) Running costs
- Ask about management fees, facade maintenance, parking fees and typical utility bills for coastal properties.
Viewing checklist ✅
- Check tightness of windows and doors; signs of damp or mould.
- Measure perceived noise at different times (morning, evening, weekends).
- Inspect balcony waterproofing and railings for corrosion.
- Ask about drainage and humidity control in the building.
- Get copies of recent utility bills and details about the property manager.
Negotiation and investment tips 💡
- Budget for regular maintenance in seaside locations.
- Compare seasonal vs year-round rental demand to understand cash flow.
- Use observed flaws or upcoming maintenance needs as leverage during negotiation.
Example profiles and recommended choices
- Young couple seeking holiday rental income: first line on a higher floor.
- Family planning long-term residence: apartment 5–10 minutes away with parking and playgrounds.
- Long-term investor focused on capital preservation: prioritise building quality over proximity.
Conclusion
Choosing between first-line and a short walk from the sea depends on goals, lifestyle and budget. First line provides visibility and rental appeal but comes with higher acquisition and maintenance costs. A 5–10 minute walk often strikes a better balance for everyday comfort and long-term living.
If you’d like, we can compare concrete apartments, estimate rental potential and organise viewings. See available listings and start your search: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or check apartments: https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments
📩 Contact BuyHome — we’ll help you choose the best property in New Boulevard and arrange viewings.