Purchasing a new home is an exciting, rewarding and sometimes an overwhelming process. Not only are you looking for a perfect floor plan to suit your needs, choosing finishes to reflect your style and tastes, you also need to take into consideration where your new home is located. There is a reason home reality TV shows often remind buyers “Location, Location, Location” – it can be an often overlooked but very important part of the home buying process!
Read on for a few tips on how to choose the perfect neighbourhood:
What’s on Your Wishlist?
One of the easiest ways to make sure nothing gets overlooked is to make a list. Take a few moments to sit down and write out what you love about your current location, and what you are looking for in your new community.
Considering a brand new neighbourhood with younger families, future schools and planning your landscaping from scratch? Or maybe you love older neighbourhoods for their larger lots, mature landscaping and established schools. Need a local coffee shop nearby for early morning java runs? Want a park down the street for your toddler to burn off energy before bed?
Road-trippin’
Once you narrow down your list of must have’s, the easiest way to get a feel for the community is to take a drive or walk through it! You will easily be able to see things in person that a website listing, builder’s website or lists on paper won’t show you.
Architectural Controls
Not all new home buyers who are building from scratch may be aware of the Architectural controls of the community. These are guidelines set by the developer that home building companies must follow.
The best way to narrow down your style or to check out the guidelines is in person, prior to meeting with your builder. Pay attention to things like the exterior colours and finishes (wood shingles, stone) exterior cladding materials (example: stucco, vinyl siding or hardy board), front attached or rear attached garages, Garage door styles, pot lights vs carriage style lights, etc.
These won’t necessarily be a deal breaker, but they are always good to consider in advance of meeting with your builder.
Come discover the difference at Liberty Landing – Red Deer’s newest Community!