When you are shopping for a new place to call home, you want to find one in a great neighbourhood. Or, at least, in a neighbourhood that is on the way up. 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? Homeowners are more likely to look after their properties when they like where they are living.
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 upscale shops, health clubs, restaurants, and other commercial enterprises that often locate near desirable neighbourhoods?
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.
Low crime. This is an obvious thing to look at as a potential buyer, Either go to the local police department for statistics, or look it up online. The Toronto Police have an excellent website that can make this an easy task.
If you’d like more information about a Toronto neighbourhood near you, let me know, I’m happy to help!