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Recently, I did an interview for a publication on how I as a Realtor assist first time home buyers in choosing a neighbourhood for their home purchase. The answer to that is not as straightforward or cut and dry as you would imagine. Simply put, if you’re buying a new home, the neighbourhood you choose can be just as important as the choice of home. What makes a great neighbourhood for one couple or family does not necessarily make it great for another. There are so many types of neighbourhoods in Calgary where you can purchase a home, but the key to finding the right home for you is to consider your lifestyle and needs.

I always advise my clients to start with a list that clearly defines what is important for them. High on that list are some of the more common requests such as proximity to work and family and friends, as well as being close to good shops and restaurants. Others may consider access to trails and outdoor life a higher priority, or being in close proximity to their place of worship. As a first time home buyer, the ultimate goal is to choose a community that makes them feel good about being a part of that “tribe” and truly immersing themselves in the community.

Also remember to consider the pros and cons of the neighborhood and its surroundings. What other factors may be significant? Look at things such as a range in property value, type of property, schools and proximity to employment, comforts and other avenues of life. Purchase in a place that allows you to experience the advantage of ownership financial appreciation and building equity. Others may look for revenue potential in an area with a separate suite to rent or renting out a room to gain more value.

So the next question is, how do you navigate budget and neighbourhood? For some, this may mean looking elsewhere, particularly in neighbourhoods that are in transition or on the verge of being gentrified. This is where I use my knowledge as an experienced realtor to help them make smart decisions that will give them the type of community they crave alongside the potential future equity they want.

Choosing a neighbourhood isn’t an exact formula and there have been times where I second guessed my recommendation to clients. Years ago, I had a client who emigrated from New Zealand. He wanted a home with an income suite that was also in his price range and offered good appreciation. I recommended a new, in-transition neighbourhood and as it turned out – he hated it. The home was perfect but the community was just not what he wanted. It worked in the end as he was able to rent both the main house and the income suite and moved to a neighbourhood that was more his speed, but it goes to show that there is no exact science when choosing a neighbourhood that aligns to your wants and budget.

When asked if there are any bad neighbourhoods in Calgary, my answer was a resounding NO. You may disagree but my explanation is simple, what you define as a “bad” area may be someone else’s dream neighbourhood We are all different and when choosing a place to purchase your home take the time to find out what you think makes a great neighbourhood and then start living.

Are  you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.

About Bryon Howard

Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.

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