Old Bakers Court

funkey_monkey

Hi,

I was looking to rent an apartment in Old Bakers Court off the Ravenhill Rd.

However, looking on the map it seems quite close to Cantrell Close, which is where there were issues recently.

Is there any issues with this development being so close or should I avoid in this development?


Thanks.

In_For_A_Penny_2

A world apart. Lived there some years ago. Relatively upmarket apartments, close to town but far enough removed that they were quiet. Mainly young professional types by my experience. . Good location for the rugby and a 10 minute walk to the Errigal. Occasionally tricky to find a parking space but no issues otherwise

funkey_monkey

Thanks - that is good to know.

funkey_monkey

Thanks - just moved in recently.
The traffic is a bit mental around that area accessing the Ravenhill!

As an aside, I was planning to avoid getting a broadband contract. Instead plan was to get a Sim Only contract with large data allowance. Is there poor connectivity in these buildings? Was not able last night to get connected and am trying to figure out if it is my currently old (3G) handset or if there is an issue in the buildings/area with access.


Thanks.

In_For_A_Penny_2

Not sure - was on Vodafone, albeit from a top floor apartment. Never had any issues. Probably depends on network though - have had trouble with both 02 and 3 in some parts of South Belfast but had no issues with Vodafone anywhere in last 5 years or so. Some current neighbours might be able to give you a better idea!

funkey_monkey

Is there an issue with noise in these buildings?

I thought they would have poured concrete or slab floors on each level so I'm a bit miffed by hearing the person in the apartment above walking around in the evening and from before 6am.

The neighbours either side appear to be quiet so far, just the one above. Didn't expect to hear that through a concrete floor!?!

Not loud enough to complain, but loud enough to waken and get your attention

Zola.

I know a couple who lived in here and it was a diasater, they had no heating for nearly a year, really dodgy builders, boilers installed and broken down, wouldn't fix them without legal action. Damaged parts of the house when working, don't return calls.

I am sure some are perfectly happy, but this one couple had an absolute nightmare and couldn't wait to sell and move out.

peter.belfast

A friend of mine is currently renting there and wanting to get out. Aside from a boiler issue, they've been plagued by kids coming in and playing.. the underground carpark gate sometimes breaks and they love to come and kick about in there especially when it's raining.

On the other side, you're far away enough from Cantrell Close as you would be any other areas with issues.

tara747

funkey_monkey wrote: »

Is there an issue with noise in these buildings?

I thought they would have poured concrete or slab floors on each level so I'm a bit miffed by hearing the person in the apartment above walking around in the evening and from before 6am.

The neighbours either side appear to be quiet so far, just the one above. Didn't expect to hear that through a concrete floor!?!

Not loud enough to complain, but loud enough to waken and get your attention

That sounds like a pain. Have you tried ear plugs? They've saved many a night's sleep for me

peter.belfast wrote: »

A friend of mine is currently renting there and wanting to get out. Aside from a boiler issue, they've been plagued by kids coming in and playing.. the underground carpark gate sometimes breaks and they love to come and kick about in there especially when it's raining.

On the other side, you're far away enough from Cantrell Close as you would be any other areas with issues.

I take it those kids don't have gardens or anywhere else to play. I feel sorry for them, tbh.

IrishRose12

How are you getting on OP?? A friend of mine lives here and loves it. Not had any problems at all. Very secure as she needs a key code to get into the grounds then into the building itself. I've stayed there a few times and it's been very peaceful, quiet apart from the odd airplane, but I love that even more lol.

funkey_monkey

Hi, thanks for the interest.

The gate into the car park never works. I've seen the maintenance guy at least twice now trying to fix it. Not sure if it is being vandalised or simply failing.

Numerous times the door into the main building is not correctly latched. I.e. when it closes back under its return mechanism the latch bolt jars against the strike plate instead of correctly closing.

The gate from car park onto the access steps have ridiculous gas struts on them which are far too strong for the purpose and could injure someone. Total pain and a danger when bringing bags etc up from the car.

Noise from upstairs getting me a bit down. Although I know there is nothing I can do about it. I've now got earplugs but they are not an ideal solution as they either come out during sleep or block my ear, so their long term use is not ideal.

It seems to be young professionals the mostly, so maybe I'm just a bit old for this place.

Access into Ravenhill is much better from the avenue then from beside the filing station.

However, I am living here in order to decide between an apartment and house for a purchase. I'm still not fully convinced on either. I think a better quality apartment may be a better option for me. My lifestyle and work pattern means that the property will be unoccupied for periods long enough to be noticed and I would have less worries about security in an apartment. Plus it is easier to close and leave for a period of time.

The apartment is also easy to heat. I've only spend £20 on gas since moving in in October. However the space, p privacy and ability to do things are limited. With a house you have extra space and cost wise they would probably be cheaper than the type of apartment I would want.