Submitted by Viajera85 t3_y464qh in baltimore

I posted a few days ago on neighborhood advice because my partner and I are looking at buying a house in the city (got great feedback btw), and I've noticed in all the houses we've looked at that there are virtually no rooftop decks in Hampden/Charles Village. Why is that? Does it have to do with building in codes/zoning in those neighborhoods, or is it just not a thing people do there? Every other rowhouse in Canton and Butcher's Hill has one and it's a big draw for us, so if we end up buying in Hampden we'd probably look into putting one on ourselves if it's permitted.

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TaterTotz8 t1_iscs31z wrote

Many of us in Hampden have front and back yards, many with decks, so there is no need for a roof deck. Roof decks do exist around here though and more and more are popping up. But…I’d prioritize a yard/deck over a roof deck. Way more convenient IMHO.

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backfi t1_isdjmvz wrote

Yeah I second this guy, you are trading a roof deck around the harbor for a front/back deck with a yard.

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nompilo t1_isfpe4z wrote

Yup. There some roof decks in Hampden, and they are permitted under the zoning code, but most people aren’t going to spend the money to add one when they spread have a perfectly nice backyard.

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PleaseBmoreCharming t1_isd1qc4 wrote

I assume its because the housing stock is bigger, therefore there is not a need (i.e. forced) to expand your "living space" into the outdoors. Furthermore, the proximity to the water and ability to view that water from said rooftop decks also may play into this. In North Baltimore there is no way to see the harbor, so decks may not be as popular. Additionally, the proximity to water adds immense value to the home and the market forces may play a role in people's decision to add one - and add an extra, say, $10k onto their house - if they go that route.

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yyyyy25ui t1_isdrbe7 wrote

Areas that were/are more popular for house flippers will tend to have more roof decks on them. Given that it’s seen as a very eye catching amenity and help sell the house.

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Notonfoodstamps t1_isfsmkb wrote

The main reason you see the roofdecks in south Baltimore vs. everywhere else is the rowhomes tend to be smaller and have views of the water/skyline which massively drives up home value.

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DfcukinLite t1_isghzer wrote

Parking pads and garages add exponentially more value to your home in south Balt over roof decks which also cause water damage/roof problems.

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