NEIGHBOURHOOD DILEMAS

The time has come and you are ready to buy a home.  You have looked at the list of things to do to prepare for this adventure.  Steps on the checklist like budget, loan rates, talking to a mortgage broker, and how much can you afford have been completed.  But now what, where to start?  

One of the hardest things as a realtor is when people really don't have a neighbourhood in mind.  They may say "the north side of the river only" or "south of Glenmore" but they don't really specifically have it narrowed down to a few neighbourhoods.   With there currently being over 3500 detached homes for sale in Calgary, this will mean a lot of choices!  So, we always ask, how many bedrooms, bathrooms, garage or no garage (we do live in Calgary) and budget but then most importantly, neighbourhood.

So what does neighbourhood mean to you?  It may mean you want a short commute to work and be able to walk to shops.  It might mean schools and activities for your kids.  Staying in the neighbourhood you have been renting in if that's a viable option.  Living in a neighbourhood that culturally aligns with your family's needs.  Perhaps you are a multigenerational family living under the same roof, with children who need elementary schools and adult parents who need senior activities.  Do the furry people in your home need to be close to an off-leash park or a pet daycare?

As you can see, when we say which neighbourhoods, it can mean a lot of different things!  Make sure you know what is important to you so we can help you see the benefits in the neighbourhoods you are considering as it can be a daunting task to choose.  Write a list and consult with everyone who is making the final decision and consider getting the opinions of those who might not be making the decisions but will be living in this new neighbourhood too.   If you are consulting with the smalls in your life be prepared to hear that the new home should be close to their best friend's house and a Slurpee store!  Also, consider consulting with your Real Estate Professional as they have likely worked in the neighbourhoods you are considering or have the resources in their Brokerage to help you find the right one!

Calgarians are funny about making changes to their city quadrants but discussing neighbourhoods seems to bring everyone to the table to discuss their favourites!  Make a list and have fun!