As you shop for a home in urban settings, you may have to compromise on square footage, but you’ll be happier if your new neighborhood offers everything you want in an urban environment. Think about features that are most important to you and your family.
Walkability. Is there a bike path or pedestrian sidewalk nearby? Can you walk the dog or take the baby for a stroll safely? Look for lots of street lighting and foot traffic. How close is the nearest Starbucks coffee shop?
Transportation and commute time. Are you close enough to subway, bus or train services? If you take a car, is there a garage you can use or do you need to buy a parking space? How long will you spend in the car for your daily commute to work? Down time is good, but long commutes get old fast.
Parks and community centers. You may have a garden or yard, but you’ll also enjoy the beauty a park offers. The local YMCA or community center can offer swimming, spinning, and activities for the kids. The local library could have a 3-D printer or have classes in calligraphy or bookbinding.
Shopping, restaurants and services. You want grocery shopping, dropping clothes at the dry cleaners, and getting your car serviced to be handy. It’s also fun to get out to the local pub, see a play or go to dinner occasionally. Hopefully you won’t have far to go.
Considering the neighborhood will make leaving and coming home much more pleasant.
