Choosing a neighbourhood is the critical first step in finding the right home to meet your lifestyle needs. But with more than 100 suburbs to choose from, how do you whittle that down to a winner?
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Jason Roses of Luton Properties Gungahlin says he uses a set of filters to help his clients narrow the options.
"I consult closely and aim to understand their lifestyle needs, what their budget is, and what they need to be close to in terms of schools, shops and infrastructure like roads and light rail," he says.
"The more pertinent the information, the stronger the recommendations you can offer."
Roses says if clients are after newer homes on smaller blocks, then Harrison, Bonner and Franklin become contenders. Those who want bigger blocks might need to head for Amaroo or Palmerston.
"There's a location that's right for every buyer and you can only find it by asking the right questions," Roses says.
Across the border, Jason Maxwell of LJ Hooker Queanbeyan says Canberrans really need guidance when crossing into NSW.
"We receive enquiries from everyone from first-home buyers, to families, to downsizers - all of them have different priorities," Maxwell says.
He says Jerrabomberra appeals strongly to Canberrans as it is similar to many ACT suburbs.
"Central Queanbeyan is popular with apartment or cottage dwellers who want to be close to shops, restaurants and pubs," Maxwell says.
"Cresswell and Googong are pretty popular with couples and families.
"There's a tremendous range of properties within the Queanbeyan region," he says.
Here's our tips:
Audit your needs. List what you are after in a suburb - what does it need to have: schools, shops, public transport, hospital access? The more information you input, the better the recommendations.
Reconnoitre the short list. Take a drive around the identified suburb. How does it present? Can you imagine yourself living there? Check out the locals. How do they rate as potential neighbours?
Focus on the detail. Take a closer look at the logistics. Where are the local shops? How long is your work commute? How easy is it for the kids to get to school?
