Choosing the right location for your new home is crucial. After all, this is where you will be living for the next several years, so you want to make sure it’s a place that you will be happy in. While it’s true that the condition of the house itself can be changed, the location cannot. That’s why the old saying “location, location, location” is so important in the world of real estate.
When starting your home search, it’s important to get a sense of the neighbourhoods that you’re interested in. Take some time to explore the communities you’re considering. Drive around the neighbourhood at different times of day to get a feel for the traffic patterns and the overall vibe. Do people seem friendly? Are there sidewalks for walking and biking?
It’s also important to consider your daily routine. If you have a long commute to work or have family members in certain areas, you’ll want to make sure the location of your new home is convenient for those needs.
Once you’ve narrowed down your neighbourhood choices, it’s time to focus on the specific properties you’re interested in. Before booking a showing, it’s a good idea to drive by the house and take a look at the property and the surrounding area. Look for signs of good maintenance and upkeep, as well as whether the neighbours take care of their homes and yards.
Consider any potential deal-breakers, such as the proximity to a major road, train tracks, or other sources of noise. It’s important to think about what you can and can’t live with before you make an offer on a home.
Checklist:
- Accessibility to neighbourhood.
- Distance to/commute to work.
- Transit options.
- Amenities (restaurants, shopping, coffee shops)
- Recreation and lifestyle amenities (parks, golf, lakes, pathways, rinks, etc)
- Proximity to major roadways.
- Proximity to entrances and exits of the neighbourhood.
- Availability of schools.
- Future development plans.
- Density.
- Proximity to family and friends.
In the end, location is subjective, and what might be a deal-breaker for one person may not be a big deal for another. It’s important to decide for yourself what factors are most important to you in a location and to stick to those priorities when choosing a new home. Remember, this is a decision that will impact your life for years to come, so take the time to make the right choice.