As a buyer looking to buy a home, one of your top concerns should be the suburb in which it is located. While you will definitely need to think about the size of the house/apartment, as well as its layout, aesthetics, etc, the neighbourhood defines how you live, how you travel, and many many more things you can’t afford to ignore.
We have decided to share with you some of the most critical things to look at before you decide where you buy.
Consider the Neighbourhood & Location
The possibility for remote working means that buyers are no longer necessarily tethered to a location that is close to the office. This frees you up to a host of possibilities. Do you want to live in a densely or highly populated area or would you prefer a smaller, seaside town? Would you like to be nestled into suburbia or would you prefer to live in the countryside? Be sure that you are happy to live in that location for at least five to ten years.
Visit the Neighbourhood Regularly
Living in an area is a very different experience from simply driving through it for a house viewing. Buyers should spend enough time in their potential neighbourhood to make sure it suits their lifestyle needs. Visit the area at different times of the day to see how things might change.
Consider Long-term Lifestyle Changes
While a neighbourhood needs to suit your current lifestyle, it also needs to be suitable for the longer term. If children are part of the plan, do research to make sure there are good crèches and schools in the area. If you suspect that your remote working situation might change soon, then make sure you consider your commute to the office.
Proximity to Essential Services, Family & Friends
There is a reason why a convenient neighbourhood is high in demand. You find everything you need to live a happier, healthier, better life in one place.
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is the importance of being able to get all your essential services and gather with your friends and family. It is important to consider the distance between your support structure and your newly chosen suburb.
Check Security & Crime Rates
We all want to live in a neighbourhood where we feel safe. A low crime rate can make a safe and desirable neighbourhood, taking worries off your shoulders. It is important to know how secure the neighbourhood is and the local crime statistics before you decide to buy.
As a buyer you should keep in mind that there are some things that can be changed, and others that cannot. While it is impossible to change a property’s location, it can be renovated or extended to meet your needs. Using an experienced real estate professional can help you make sound purchasing decisions and avoid making costly mistakes.