If you’re looking to buy a home that you can live in forever, you should consider future-proofing.
Future-proofing aptly describes the process of buying a home with an eye to the future.
It’s about where you are in your life and where you’re going.
Are you a twosome thinking about becoming parents? Are you a family with kids who will soon leave the nest? Or are you the savvy buyer looking for location? In all cases, future-proofing is the way to go.
First, check for amenities that suit your current and future lifestyles. If you’re family-conscious, that means more than establishing whether there’s a school nearby. It means ensuring that there are lots of young families in the neighborhood, as evidenced by parked bikes, swing sets and toys. You’ll want to make certain there are parks nearby, as well as libraries, recreation centers and cultural activities. A daytime scouting trip should give you a feel for this, but as important is an evening drive. Those charming bars and cafes that lend sophistication to a neighborhood in daytime may become sources of noise and mischief night.
Safety should be a key concern. Can the kids safely walk to school? Are there bike lanes or a block parent program? There should be sidewalks on at least one side of the road, maybe traffic calming devices and, of course, good street lighting. Does the neighborhood feel safe? While you might be happy that there are stores and restaurants in your new area, if you’re planning to be there for the long term, be sure to check with the city planning department to ensure that there are no upcoming unpleasant surprises, such as a new highway two blocks over. Your real estate agent can help with this.
Think sustainability. A neighborhood that preserves its natural assets and prizes green space will be a good place to live for a long time. Old shade trees, big yards and gardens, and walking trails are not only environmentally sensible, but make the neighborhood a prettier place to live, now and in the future.