When it comes to Toronto real estate, we're fortunate to have a variety of diverse neighbourhoods and communities to choose from. In Toronto, the question is not finding a good neighbourhood, as there are quite a few, but it's choosing one that suits your life at present and one that you can grow into.

Be realistic about your current life situation to find a Toronto neighbourhood and home that reflects who you are and what you're looking for in a real estate property. For example, choosing a student neighbourhood or a small condo in Toronto might not be the best idea if you plan to have a family in the near future.

There are a few things home buyers tend to forget when looking for real estate in certain areas of Toronto. Proximity to work, amenities, public transit and the accessibility of the neighbourhood is very important when buying real estate. Is the real estate property too near the TTC that you can hear it loud and clear? Try driving to work via the Toronto neighbourhood you like on a Monday morning and see firsthand what the commute is like.

If you are unfamiliar with a certain Toronto neighbourhood, it is important to visit the area to see how it makes you feel. Visiting at different times of the day and year will give you a realistic feeling of what the neighbourhood is like to live in. Some neighbourhoods may feel good during the day but are disconcerting at night. Sometimes what is perfect on paper, just might not feel right in person.

Find out from your Toronto real estate agent if there are any future developments for the neighbourhood you like. Is there green space in the neighbourhood which could be developed? If a condo goes up, what would this do for your view or sun blockage? Would the abundance of cars cause unwanted traffic?

If you have children, it is important to look at Toronto schools and parks in the neighbourhood and how your child can get there safely. Your real estate agent will also be able to tell you if a neighbourhood is family oriented. Who are your potential neighbours? Try to get clues by visiting your future neighbourhood frequently.

Some home buyers would choose a good real estate deal or the love of a house over location, but just remember, while you can always change the house, the location is forever.

Location, location, location. If you're in the market for buying real estate, you need to decide how important location of the real estate property is to you. Selecting a few neighbourhoods you are open to could be something to consider when buying your Toronto home.

Anil Khera
Your Toronto Real Estate Agent