Where do you want to live?

One of the most important decisions you need to make when considering buying a property is where do you want to live? What facilities do you want your possible new neighbourhood and local community to have?

We suggest that you make a checklist of all the things that you need to consider when searching for that perfect piece of real estate. This will ensure that you don't get caught in the heat of the moment and make the wrong decision that could cost you dearly in the long run.

Some items (though not exhaustive) to add to your checklist:

How far are you prepared to travel to work, school or shopping?
Are there any specialist services that you rely on?
Do you like being close to community resources such as the library?
Is entertainment an important part of your social life?
Are there particular recreational activities that you want to be near to? For example if your child is a future Olympic swimmer you don't want to be too far from the nearest swimming pool.
Does the area have medical and dental services nearby, and where is the nearest hospital?
Does the immediate neighbourhood have public "green spaces"?
Does the area have any air or noise pollution issues? For example are you on a flight path? Or is there a chemical factory at the end of the school playing field?
What services are available? For example sewerage, mains water or well water, electricity, cable, high speed internet access etc?
Does the area zoning permit home offices? Tenants or boarders? Vacation rentals?
What are the short and long term development plans for the neighbourhood and surrounding area?
What will the neighbourhood & community be like when you move in? In 5 years? In 10 years?

Of course there are probably a lot more questions that you have that are pertinent to your situation. Everytime you think of one jot it down before you forget it, it may just be the vital question on your checklist that indicates either the perfect property, or something that you shouldn't touch this side of the next millenium.