Its not just about the house – You are buying a community.
As an agent when I sit down with Buyers and do their personal needs analysis –a nice neighbourhood., good community , schools and parks consistently ranks very high in whats important to buyers.
Having said that – I am always amazed at how few people take any time to check out the “hood” other then a drive through and a quick internet school check. It is important to know the community you are going to call home.
It’s a great idea once you narrow down your choices in area to do your homework. Make an appointment at the school take a tour, talk to the principal it’s the best way to get first hand knowledge of the school and how your child’s particular needs will be met. If you can’t go in person at least speak to the school by phone.
Take your kids to the local park. How does it feel – these are the children who live in the area are there any parents about? Talk to people. Go for a walk after work; visit the closest grocery store, the closest pub, the nearest library. Ask if there is a community association – a strong community association reveals much about an area.
Do you take transit to work? Take OC Transpo – to your chosen areas after work. Is the commute time acceptable? Do this before you have found your dream house, if you do it after you will talk yourself into what is acceptable. Thinking of moving outside the city and commuting in to Ottawa? You should drive to and from the area to your place of employment several times in different weather conditions before making a final decision.
Start your homework today
www.cityottawa.on.ca City of Ottawa
www.occdsb.on.ca for Ottawa Catholic School Board
www.ocdsb.ca for Ottawa-Carleton Public School Board
www.ecolecatholique.ca French Catholic School Board
www.cepeo.on.ca French Public service Board