Consider the Present before the Future
Before searching for new neighborhoods, it is important to first reflect on your current community. In order to decide what you need and want in a future area, you must first examine what you love and what is lacking where you currently live. Ask yourself questions such as:
What is my favourite part of my community? Am I willing to give that up?
Does the location of my community fit well into my personal and professional life? Am I willing to commute?
If I could change one thing about my neighborhood, what would that be? Is this a deal breaker when searching for new communities?
What is the atmosphere like in my neighborhood? Do I like the vibes and the lifestyle?
The Must-Haves
Don’t start researching neighborhoods blind; make a list of your must-haves. Consider the essential parts of your lifestyle that you refuse to compromise on. List your demands from your ‘must-haves’ to your ‘would-like-to-haves’ to prioritize what you may be willing to negotiate. Ask yourself questions such as:
What kind of home do I want? Detached single family, townhouse, condo or apartment?
(If I have children/or am I planning to start a family) What are the priorities of my children? How close am I to the park? What school catchments do I fall under?
How close am I to transit? Is that a priority or do I rely on my personal car?
How long is my commute to work? to restaurants? to my favourite leisure activities?
How close am I to my family and friends? Is that a deal-breaker?
It’s all about the give and take, and finding the perfect balance between your needs and your wants.
Research the Details
When you start narrowing down your priorities and find certain areas that make it to the top of your list, start researching the facts about your potential options. Now is the time to learn about the prospective living areas. Research while asking yourself:
What are the school catchments the area? And what is the quality of the schools?
Are the tourist attractions appealing to me? What does the city have to offer?
What is the crime rate? How safe is the neighborhood?
What is the current market value for the homes in the area? Am I able to afford the lifestyle?
A great way to get a feel about new neighborhoods is by the word of mouth. Ask your realtor about different areas; remember it’s their job to know the pros and cons of different living options. Or maybe even ask people who already live in the neighborhood, talk to friends/family or even possible neighbors. This is a great way to get an actual feel of what it would be like to live in the new neighborhood.
Moving to a new community can be a daunting life change. But by prioritizing your needs and wants you will be able to narrow down what will make you and your family happy. When you ask yourself the right questions and keep an open mind when exploring new areas, you will be able to find the perfect neighborhood suited for you.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
Why Move to South Surrey - http://vantagerealestate.ca/why-move-to-south-surrey-
Best Restaurants at Crescent Beach - http://realestatewhiterock.com/best-restaurants-at-crescent-beach-
Best Restaurants at White Rock Beach - http://realestatewhiterock.com/best-restaurants-at-white-rock-beach-
Pros of the Townhouse Living - http://realestatewhiterock.com/the-pros-of-townhouse-living-
-Vantage Real Estate Group
