7 Considerations For Choosing a Neighbourhood That’s Right for You
May 17, 2023
Choosing the right home is about more than just the number of bedrooms or the size of the kitchen. It’s also about choosing the right neighbourhood. The community you live in can significantly affect your lifestyle and satisfaction with your home purchase. But how do you find a neighbourhood that’s the right fit for you? Here are some factors to consider.
1. Know Your Lifestyle Needs
The type of neighbourhood that suits you best can depend significantly on your lifestyle and life stage. If you’re a young professional, you might prioritise proximity to work, access to vibrant nightlife, gyms, coffee shops, and public transportation. A family might prefer a neighbourhood with parks, good schools, and other families of similar ages. On the other hand, retirees might value a quiet, walkable neighbourhood with healthcare facilities close by. Try making a list of your needs and wants in a neighbourhood to help guide your search.
2. Consider the Local Amenities
Amenities are an essential part of any neighbourhood. These could range from parks and leisure facilities to shopping centres, restaurants, and public libraries. It’s important to visit the neighbourhood at different times of the day to understand the availability and accessibility of these amenities. Pay attention to the cleanliness and upkeep of these facilities as well as their business hours. It can also be helpful to talk to local business owners and patrons to get their take on the neighbourhood.
3. Research the Local School Catchment
If you have children or plan to have children, the quality of local schools is a vital consideration. Research school Catchmen boundaries and the individual schools within those districts. Look at standardised test scores, school facilities, student-teacher ratios, and extracurricular offerings. EdMap is a useful resource. Remember, even if you don’t have children, the quality of nearby schools can affect your property’s resale value.
4. Check Out Transportation and Commute
Consider the location of the neighbourhood in relation to your job. Check the usual traffic conditions during your commute hours. If you plan to use public transportation, look into the reliability, frequency, and proximity of these services to your potential new home. Proximity to major highways, airports, and train stations can also factor into your decision, particularly if you frequently travel for work or leisure.
5. Assess Future Development
Understanding a neighbourhood’s potential for growth can help you predict how your surroundings will change over time. Future developments can impact everything from traffic and noise levels to the value of your property. Visit the local city planning department to see if there are any significant developments on the horizon. This could include new residential communities, shopping centres, schools, or highways.
6. Noise and Activity Levels
Depending on your personal preferences, the neighbourhood’s noise and activity level could be a deciding factor. Some people enjoy bustling, lively neighbourhoods, while others prefer quieter, slower-paced ones. Visit the neighbourhood at different times of the day, and on weekdays and weekends, to get an accurate sense of the typical noise and activity levels.
7. Understand the Local Real Estate Market
A basic understanding of the local real estate market can give you insight into the neighbourhood’s affordability and potential return on investment. Look at recent sales trends, average house prices, and the length of time homes stay on the market. A local real estate agent can be a valuable resource for this information. They can provide insights into the neighbourhood’s desirability and whether it’s considered an up-and-coming area.
Choosing the right neighbourhood is a deeply personal decision, and it’s essential to find a balance between practical considerations and emotional appeal. Remember that while homes can be renovated and remodelled, your neighbourhood is the one thing about your home that cannot be changed. So take the time to find a neighbourhood that feels like home to you.