| Location Location - Finding your way home
When you're buying a home, the location is just as important
as the home itself. It impacts your quality of life and the
resale value of your home. Most realtors agree that the first
step in home-hunting should be narrowing your search to a
specific neighbourhood.
First, look at your lifestyle and future plans. Will you
need schools or public transit nearby? What about green spaces
or recreational facilities? What's the maximum daily commute
you're willing to make? Think about your family and friends
- do you want to live close to them?
Once you've determined your needs, your realtor can source
information about different neighbourhoods, pricing trends
and community information using RealtyLink.ca, the Real Estate
Board's comprehensive listings and information source.
Spend time researching
neighbourhoods that interest you. Talk to the residents
and merchants. Go for a walk in the local park. Have coffee
in the cafés and try out one
or two restaurants. Read the community newspaper to get an
idea of community activities, issues and concerns.
Also, consider these issues:
Zoning and community planning:
Find out what plans are in store for your neighbourhood
- perhaps there are some new developments, infrastructure
or zoning changes. You can get zoning by-laws and a copy
of the community or neighbourhood plan from the local city
hall.
Safety & noise:
Visit the community at different times of the day and night
to determine safety and noise levels in the area. will you
feel comfortable walking at night? Will the noise keep you
awake? Check with the local police department for statistics
on break-ins and other crimes.
Schools:
Drop by the local schools
and ask about class sizes, programs, activities and parental
involvement. If schools are crowded, find out if there are
plans for expansion. Even if you don't have children, the
quality of the local schools affects the value of your home.
With your realtor's assistance and your own research efforts,
you're sure to end up in a neighbourhood that's right for
you. |
