Visiting a property that you really like can be a thrill. You may feel an onslaught of emotions and possibly even fall in love with it at first sight. However, it is also the time to get more detailed information about important aspects that are not visible at first glance or during the inspection. The following 8 points will help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises.
1. Choose the best time for the visit
In most cases, potential buyers schedule their visits on the weekend. This may be easier to manage with your work schedule; however, traffic in the neighbourhood is different from on a mid-week day. To get an idea of how quiet or noisy it is, try to schedule the visit for later in the day on a weekday. If this is not possible, take a walk down the street where the property is located.
2. Proximity to the street and neighbours
While your attention is focused on the property you’re visiting, it’s also essential to take a long look at the surroundings:
How far away are neighbouring buildings?
Are they single or multi-family residences?
Are any windows facing each other directly, and in what room?
Are there air conditioners or pools that may cause noise?
Are there any children’s play structures or a daycare?
If the property you like is close to the street, check which rooms are at the front of the house. Though preferences vary, most prefer bedrooms to be in the back. Also, notice whether the street connects two major thoroughfares or is used as a shortcut by many motorists.
3. Zoning and possible neighbourhood changes
This is a consideration for the street where the property is located and for the neighbourhood. Find out what zoning regulations apply in the area and if any major projects are planned for the coming years.
Is there a large vacant lot owned by a real estate developer nearby? Has the municipality just authorized the construction of buildings with more than three floors? Has it indicated a desire to increase urban density, meaning large residential buildings may be built in the future?
Check out the zoning by-laws to learn more about what is allowed in the neighbourhood and what services the municipality provides. For example, an industrial/commercial designation means a business could set up shop close to your home.
4. Sources of noise
Even if they don’t generate noise pollution 24 hours a day, certain businesses create some level of noise: the comings and goings of delivery trucks, dumpsters, and customers, or large-scale ventilation systems. There will be times when it’s not as quiet as others. Nearby highways, airports, and railroads will also raise the decibels. Identify any potential noise sources and try to see how noticeable they are inside the house and the yard.
5. Frequency of snow removal
Municipalities usually operate the same way when establishing their snow removal schedules. They assign a priority level to different streets: Priority 1 (major thoroughfares), Priority 2 (busy streets), and Priority 3 (residential streets and rural roads). Consult the appropriate municipality’s interactive map to determine the priority status of the street where the house is located.
6. Mature trees and their branches
The presence of mature trees and greenery on the desired property is often an attractive selling feature. It’s important to remember that it also means responsibility. For example, you must do regular maintenance to prevent branches from scraping or breaking on your home or neighbouring buildings. Keep in mind that these large, beautiful trees have lots of leaves that will need to be raked in the fall.
7. Direction of the sun
An important consideration, especially for those who love light and sunshine. Where does the sun rise, where does it hit mid-day, and where does it set? Does it give way to a beautiful sunset? Even if your visit is on a rainy day, you can use this information to identify which rooms will be the brightest and if there are trees that will cast shade. There are many tricks to let in natural light to help in any case.
8. Slope of the property
Landscaping, green lawn, patio, gorgeous swimming pool: it’s all beautiful, but there’s more to it than that! Check to see whether the ground is relatively flat to ensure that there is no water accumulation. If the land is not level, make sure that the slopes around the house are graded to keep water away from the foundation.
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