The Importance of Checking Out Neighbourhoods.

When shopping for a home, you're not just buying a home, you're buying a location! Even the most perfect house won't feel right if it is situated in the wrong neighbourhood or in a difficult location.

You can make the most use of our personal knowledge and experience of the communities of Central and South Etobicoke and—The Lakeshore in particular— to help your choose wisely and end up being happy with your decision.

Here are a few basic questions and answers to consider:

Q: Is this location close to shopping and recreational facilities?

A: Being near to stores, malls, the post office, dry cleaners, parks and recreational amenities is important because you will save time and gas when running errands.

Q: Are there schools nearby?

A: If you have children, the proximity and quality of schools is most important to you. Some schools will provide test scores data that can determine quality. Some buyers question neighbours with children to determine the calibre of local schools.

Q: Is there ready access to transportation?

A: Living near public transport and/or major highways can mean an easier commute to work.

Q: Is the area or street safe?

A: Checking with the local police station may be helpful. They may be able to provide statistics about break-ins or other crime.

Q: Will the home increase in value over time?

A: Homes in some neighbourhoods appreciate faster than others. Researching selling prices over the past few years may be helpful in predicting future trends. We may be able to provide relevant historical sales data through the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB).

Q: Is the neighbourhood or street location quiet?

A: Most buyers prefer to live in a quiet or tranquil neighbourhood. To determine your level of tolerance for environmental noise, you may need to walk around the neighbourhood and listen for traffic noise, barking dogs, airplanes and any other sounds that might bother you. Returning to the neighbourhood at different times of the day may give you to a more accurate impression.

Q: Do people in the area take care of their homes?

A: Explore the neighbourhood, keeping an eye out for signs of neglect (overgrown lawns, houses in need of paint, garbage and junked appliances littering yards). A run-down street or neighbourhood can hurt your property value.