Checking out homes in The 6ix? This check-list is a must

Dreaming of taking the plunge into buying a new place? Here’s a forward-thinking tip: it’s never too early to start grounding your dreams in reality with a home-buying checklist. 

To get you started on building one, here are a few key factors to keep in mind when you make a move towards moving. Keeping them in mind may help get you closer to finding the home that’s a perfect fit for future you.

Decide “how much” 

The first step in any home-buying journey? Start by crunching the numbers and figuring out what you can afford. This depends on a few factors — current mortgage rates, down payment amounts, closing costs, land transfer taxes, and more. 

Once you’ve settled on a number that makes sense for you, you’ll know where and when to look for your next place. (You can check out this free instant home estimate calculator to get a better sense of current home values, too!).

Create your wish list 

Now that you’ve got an idea of how much you can afford, start thinking about what you want out of your new home. More space, or less? Big city living or a quiet country abode? A chef’s kitchen with a sprawling island, or a compact kitchenette that leaves more room for entertaining?

Once you’ve created your dream home list, it’s a good idea to take some time to prioritize what’s most important. While the hope is that you’ll find a place that checks off most of the boxes, you may need to compromise, so we recommend deciding on your must-haves well in advance. 

Think inside, and outside, the box 

The square footage of a home is a great way to gauge whether a space will work for you and your crew, but it’s good to think bigger. For instance, the layout is a pretty important consideration. Ask yourself if there are enough bedrooms (for now and the future!), or if there’s enough living space, workspace, and storage to suit your needs. 

Don’t forget about the great outdoors! You can always change locations, but you can’t change the size of your lot, so make sure the yard is roomy enough for you and your favourite outdoor activities. 

Location, location, location! 

When you say ‘Yes!’ to a home, you’re also committing to a community — that’s why you should also think about what you want out of your new locale. 

Consider the amenities a potential new neighbourhood has to offer, and whether those will complement your lifestyle. We’re talking: cost of living, access to nature, proximity to friends and family, and more (take a look at Properly’s recent Happiness Index report for more inspiration!).

There’s always more to explore in The 6ix

Whether you’re ready for your next move or not, keeping an eye on listings will keep you connected to everything the real estate market has to offer. Check out these listings in some very feature-full neighbourhoods — they might inspire you to kick-start your home-buying journey, or give you an idea of what you want out of your next place.

Happy house hunting!

251 Ontario Street | Home in the heart of downtown 

Just steps away from a bustling neighbourhood parkette, this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse offers all the perks of downtown living while checking all the boxes for the urban family. Beautiful finishes throughout bring its functional layout to life. 

128-15 Elsie Lane | Putting family first

This special 2+1 bedroom corner unit townhouse is a great place for a growing family! Close to Bickford Park and Little Italy — 2 of the top 5 ranked neighbourhoods for childcare and schools — you’ll know your little ones are getting the best at home, and at school.

127 Weybridge Trail | A place to play 

Conveniently located across from Weybridge Park in Brampton, this 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom detached home scores big points in the recreation department. In fact, it’s ranked the #2 neighbourhood for activities to try! Don’t miss the chance to make this gem your new home base.

13 Vicross Road | Access to the outdoors

If enjoying the outdoors is one of your favorite pastimes, you may want to check out this rare gem located in the highly-coveted Topham Park neighbourhood. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and surrounded by an extra-large lot, this 6-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is an opportunity you have to see for yourself.