7 Vastu checks to make on an off-plan floor plan before you buy

Before you pay the booking amount on an off-plan unit, check seven things on the floor plan: the true north, the main entrance position, the master bedroom zone, the kitchen fire zone, the north-east corner, toilet placement and the overall shape of the unit. Together they tell you whether a unit is suitable, suitable with simple fixes, or worth reconsidering.

1. Where is true north on the plan?

Every other check depends on it. Look for a compass mark or site plan in the brochure. If there isn't one, ask the sales team for the unit's orientation before going further.

2. Where does the main entrance fall?

Note which side of the unit the front door is on and where it sits along that wall. Entrances in the north-east, north or east are generally favoured, but the exact position along the wall matters on every side.

3. Is the master bedroom in the south-west?

The south-west supports stability for the head of the household. A master bedroom elsewhere isn't a deal-breaker, but this is one of the strongest points a plan can have.

4. Is the kitchen in or near the south-east?

The south-east is the natural fire zone. A kitchen in the north-east is the placement most worth avoiding, since fire and the calm, water-like north-east conflict.

5. Is the north-east open and light?

Check that the north-east isn't a toilet, store or kitchen. Living rooms, balconies or a light bedroom here are ideal.

6. Where are the toilets?

Toilets in the north-east or the centre of the home are the placements to question. West and north-west positions are generally acceptable.

7. Is the shape regular?

Square and rectangular units are easiest to balance. Cut or extended corners, especially in the north-east or south-west, need a closer look.

Comparing more than one unit?

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