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A Place Called Home

By
Real Estate Agent with Windermere Real Estate N.E.

Ext front main  A neighborhood can be every bit as important as the dwelling itself.  The 2009 National Association of Realtors Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers reported the results of a survey of consumers and real estate agents regarding top influential characteristics in selecting a home.  

 

  • 64% believe Quality of neighborhood is one of the most important attributes in selecting a home.
  • 50% believe Convenience to jobs is important.  Commuting costs are a key factor in neighborhood selection.  
  • 43% responded overall Affordability of homes.
  • 37% felt Convenience to family and friends to be important.
  • 26% looked to Quality of the school district.
  • 26% also cite Convenience to shopping.
  • 23% were looking at Neighborhood design.
  • 21% valued Convenience to schools.

Think hard about the features that matter most to you and your family.  Take a walk through the neighborhood that surrounds the home you're considering.  How are the surrounding homes maintained?  Is the area peaceful?  If you are interested in parks, a library, restaurants or shopping are they convenient?  Talk to the neighbors about the neighborhood and what it's like to live there.  Try to morning and evening commute.  As your agent, I am familiar with local communities and can help you identify a neighborhood that meets your needs.

Li Read
Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) - Salt Spring Island, BC
Caring expertise...knowledge for you!

I call this the "surround sound", and it is truly important information.    The buyer has to appreciate this to go forward on a particular dwelling.    If they love house/don't like neighbourhood, they're not buying!

May 30, 2010 05:45 AM