Location Is Everything - True Or False?

The importance of location when buying a property really depends on your priorities.
Do you want make a capital gain? Do you want to buy a property that is easy to on-sell?
Do you want a property that enjoys a great view or is close to local amenities?

The importance of location really does depend on your reasons for buying the property, what you want to do with it and what you want to achieve?

Finding the right location can be so important to your future lifestyle. So, there is no point buying a property centrally located near a busy road if you are looking for peace and quiet.
If you are more concerned about resale value and capital growth, then buying in the right location is imperative. Buying close to, or withing easy commuting distance, to a major city is a safe bet from a resale point of view.

If more people who want to buy in the area, the more popular the location, the easier a property is to sell (and for a higher price). That is assuming the structure (building) is of an equally popular style, layout, size and standard. The concept of buying the worst house in the best street is generally good advice.

So, before buying a house or selecting a location, decide what it really is you want from a property.

Is it convenience, capital gain, resale value, style, size or a mixture of many things?

Start by making a list of all the key features that you'd like in your ideal location.
How important is it for your new home to be in close proximity to public transport, shops, cafēs, good local schools?

Write down absolutely everything that you believe to be important to you when looking for your new home. Prioritize things in order from most important to least important. You might want to ask others who will be living with you to do the same.

You won't necessarily find a property with everything you are looking for, but at least you will know your priorities and what you might be prepared to sacrifice in order to get a home that closely meets your other aspirations.

By doing this exercise you will be focused when searching for your perfect property. The internet can be a good starting point as it is an excellent research tool. You will be able to select from properties with your desired number of bedrooms, bathrooms, garaging, locality and price range.

Many real estate websites also include a local map with proximity to schools and transport shown. The alternative is to simply go to Google Earth or one of the other online maps and search the location yourself.

Also surf websites for information about local schools, shopping, events, attractions, facilities etc. The more you know the better informed you'll be.

A word of warning! Make sure that the information you are getting is independent and correct. Buying a property can be time-consuming and involves a big financial commitment.