When you’re trying to buy a new home, it can be easy to focus all your attention on the house and forget important factors such as the community itself. Unless you are committed to living in the same area you are currently in, there will be some important factors to consider before deciding upon your new neighbourhood.

Amenities

Do you like to be right in the thick of the action and only a short walk away from the nearest retail amenities? If so, consider purchasing a home in an area that is full of the conveniences that are most important to you – whether that be grocery stores and banks, or hip new restaurants and trendy boutiques. Alternatively, you may be more interested in what the natural landscape has to offer in which case you will want to look for communities that are full of parks and pathways.

Transportation

When selecting a new community, take time to consider what your daily transportation options will look like. If you drive to work daily, consider test-driving your commute and see how long of a drive it will be in rush hour or during peak times. If public transportation is more realistic for you, research the different options available in the area. During peak times, check how often the transit will stop near your community.

Homeowners Association

Check and see if the community you are interested in has a homeowners association (HOA) that will ensure the overall aesthetic of the neighbourhood is consistently maintained. At its core a HOA is the heart of the community and on top of keeping the area in good condition, they are often responsible for creating opportunities for residents to connect and engage with each other more frequently.

Schools

Even if you don’t have any kids, it is important to investigate the proximity of good quality schools in the area as it will increase the value of your home when it comes to resell value.

Crime Rates

If you are looking into an older and more established neighbourhood, check out the local crime rates to get an idea of the overall sense of safety within the community. As a resident of Calgary, you can check the local crime statistics by clicking here.

At Cedarglen Homes we are proud to build in a variety of incredible communities that each have their own unique offerings depending on what you look for in a community.

Belmont is a beautiful new neighbourhood in south Calgary that offers a fantastic opportunity for young families to get into a brand-new community at an affordable price, while still being close to established schools and retail amenities in neighbouring communities.
Seton has been dubbed the new south urban district of Calgary and is ideal for those looking to live in a vibrant new community full of all the amenities you could dream of. With close proximity to the South Health Campus, the worlds largest YMCA and much more, the future is very bright in this modern new community.
Cranston’s Riverstone strikes the ideal balance of being close to the neighbouring amenities in Seton and upper Cranston, while being surrounded by nature. Nestled on the edge of the Bow River and Fish Creek Park, this picturesque community is perfect for those active families looking to enjoy the outdoors in their own backyard.
The Rise West Grove Estates offers uncompromising value as it is nestled within the established communities of Calgary west end and is close to several attractive amenities. All homes in this community are within walking distance of several parks and pathways and are a short 15 minute commute to the city centre.
The Parks of Harvest Hills is a tranquil new community in north Calgary with the perfect combination of connection to nature and urban living. This sanctuary in the city is ideally situated near several grocery stores, restaurants, and retail shopping and will include a variety of outdoor amenities such as tennis courts, greenway trails and parks.
Livingston is considered the new north of Calgary and is a community focused on establishing connection amongst its residents. This beautiful new area is designed with several modern homes and gathering spaces and will include an engaged homeowners association to help you feel at home right away.

For more helpful tips to help you prepare to purchase your first home, check out our First Time Home Buyers Guide!