When you’re looking for a new home, you want to
find one in a great neighbourhood – or, at least, in a neighbourhood
that is on the upswing.
How can you tell if a particular area is improving?
Here are some common indicators:
Pride of ownership. Take a walk around the neighbourhood. Do you get a
sense that people take good care of their homes? Are the lawns mowed? Is the
landscaping trimmed? Are flowers planted? Home owners are more likely to look
after their properties when they like where they are living.
Home improvements. Are people investing in their homes? Are they getting their driveways re-done? Their windows
replaced? Are there signs of home improvement projects? If so, this is a clear
indication that home owners like the area enough to invest in their properties.
Real estate sales activity. Do homes tend to sell quickly in the area? Do they
sell for a good price? If so, the neighbourhood is probably in demand. If people
want to live there, it's a desirable area.
Business investment. Are businesses investing in the surrounding area?
Is there an increase in the number of up scale shops, health clubs, restaurants,
and other commercial enterprises that often locate near desirable neighbourhoods?
Community involvement. Are there signs that the community plays an active
role in the look and lifestyle of the neighbourhood? Are there neighbourhood picnics, yard sales and other
get-togethers? Check Facebook to see if the neighbourhood has a
community page.
City plans.
Find out what plans the city has for the area. Will there be road improvements
done in the near future? Are there any major construction projects on the
schedule, such as a new school or community centre.
Although such projects can be disruptive in the
short term, they may improve the neighbourhood – and, as a result, boost
the value of any home you buy in the long-term. Of course, the best way to
find out the desirability of a neighbourhood is to talk to a good REALTOR® who
knows the area. Call today.
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