Buying Property in a New Suburb? Here’s How to Choose.
Here’s How to Choose the Neighbourhood That’s Right for You.
When you're on the hunt to buy a new home in an unfamiliar suburb, the process can feel overwhelming.
That’s because you’re not just looking for a roof and four walls; you're searching for a home.
And doing so in a place you don’t know can be scary.
Will you like it? Does it have what you need? How will it impact your lifestyle?
Answering these questions is going to need a blend of practicality, foresight and a little bit of good ol’ intuition.
Let's explore 9 easy ways to narrow down your choice and find the place that feels just right.
- Figure out your budget first
- Think about your lifestyle
- Is it a short, medium or long term vision?
- Check out your surroundings
- Consider public transport
- Confirm school zones
- Talk to the people
- Don’t overlook safety
- Long-term growth and development
1. Figure out your budget first
Why? Because when it comes to purchasing a new home, money matters.
Before you start dreaming of your new place, it’s important to know how much you have to spend.
That’s because your budget decides where you can start looking, and ensures you’re not wasting your time chasing an unrealistic idea.
Of your favourite areas are too pricey? Why not try the next suburb over.
Neighbouring suburbs might offer similar vibes without putting a strain on your finances.
Who know? You might just find a hidden gem that’s not only is kinder to your wallet, but has the potential to grow in value too!
2. Think about your lifestyle
This one’s important. What's your lifestyle like?
Do you enjoy quiet nights or bustling streets?
If you're an avid jogger or sports fanatic look for places with parks, trails or sporting hubs within walking distance. Maybe you're a foodie who loves dining out? Check out areas with loads of restaurants and cafés nearby.
Your lifestyle is a key determinant in how to choose where to live – not just today, but in the future too.
Think about your commute, too. Living an hour away from work might seem manageable at first, but long daily commutes can quickly become a burden.
A good tip? Visit the area at different times and on different days. Drive around and check out where people are and what they’re doing so you can get a feel for the local lifestyle and whether it matches your own.
3. Short, Medium or Long Term?
In most cases, a new home isn't just for now; it's for the future too, so it pays to choose wisely.
A neighbourhood that suits you at 30 years old might not be ideal at 60.
So whether you're just starting out or settling down, try to pick a place that fits your long-term plans.
Taking this long-term view will profoundly influence your choice.
For instance, young couples might not have an immediate need to be near schools, but planning for a family could make school zones a priority in the near future.
Similarly, what suits you in your younger, more active years might differ from what you'll need in retirement.
The goal is to choose a suburb or area that not only meets your current lifestyle but that can also be suitable over time.
4. Check out your surroundings
Tying in with the above, the amenities that exist within the area you’re considering will determine whether it is suitable for you to buy in.
That’s because amenities within close proximity play a significant role in supporting your day-to-day comfort, convenience and lifestyle.
Depending on your needs, look for areas with good doctors, shops, entertainment options - maybe even a gym – anything you tend to use regularly, or plan to in the future.
Consider the suburb's natural elements too.
Short distances to beaches, reserves or green spaces might be a drawcard for families and outdoor enthusiasts, while conversely it pays to be aware of potential environmental hazards such as flood zones or high pollution levels, which could impact not only your lifestyle but ongoing insurance costs too.
5. Consider public transport
For many, the ability to commute easily is vital, especially if you're driving for work or love to get out and explore.
A suburb that’s well-connected by main roads, expressways or bike paths can significantly enhance your lifestyle quality and home's future value.
If you rely on public transport, find a place with good bus and train connections, or access to taxi and ride share networks.
Future transport plans also merit attention, as they signify the suburb's growth potential. So if you feel it’s important, check out local planning websites in the area you’re looking at.
6. Confirm local school zones
For families in particular, school zones are quite a big deal.
Besides the logistical convenience of having reputable schools nearby, being within the desired school zones can influence long-term educational outcomes for children.
Alternatively, areas well-serviced by school buses or within walking distance to schools can often suggest the area is family-friendly.
So if you have - or are planning to have - children, checking out school zones will probably be towards the top of your ‘must haves’ list.
7. Talk to the people
This one’s possibly our biggest tip - don't just go by what you see online or in the brochures.
That’s because nothing substitutes a firsthand account.
So talk to people who know the area, or even better – those who actually live there.
Longstanding real estate agents, local residents, even your potential future neighbours can offer candid insights you won't find anywhere else.
What do they love? What do they wish was different? Their answers can tell you a lot about what it's really like to live there.
Speaking with those in the know will provide a genuine snapshot of the suburb — what draws people in and what, if anything, might be deal-breakers.
These conversations can complement your research, so you can better understand a suburb's unique character.
8. Safety
Just like community, safety is key too. You want to feel safe in your new home.
Check crime statistics in the suburbs you’re considering. Two great places to start are SAPOL and DataSA.
Online forums and community boards can also offer unfiltered insights into any concerns or issues.
A safe neighbourhood means better sleep and less worry, so it pays to check it out before you move there.
9. Consider Long-Term Growth and Development
Buying a home is a significant investment – whether you’re planning on staying there long term or not - and part of that investment is the suburb's potential for growth.
So researching planned infrastructure or development projects can give clues about a suburb's future.
New schools, shopping centres or transport upgrades can boost property values over time.
However, it’s important to remember that development can be a double-edged sword.
While it can bring amenities closer to home, it might also lead to increased traffic or change the area's character.
Weighing the pros and cons of these developments is crucial in how to find a home in a new suburb that will meet your needs now and in the future.
Choosing the right suburb when you're looking to buy a new home in an unfamiliar place requires a balance of research and practical consideration. Intuition also plays a part, and it’s always wise to heed feelings of unease if something just doesn’t feel right.
Remember, you’re aiming to not only find a house, but to discover a place where you and your family can thrive.
The perfect suburb for you is one that not only meets your needs today but also supports the life you aspire to live tomorrow.
It pays to take your time and consider all angles so you know you’re making a decision you'll be happy with for years to come.
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As property experts with over 21+ years combined experience in buying, selling and managing property in Adelaide, We Connect Property are ready and waiting to offer expert guidance and support when you need it most, and answer all your questions about buying your next property.
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And if you’re just getting started, or looking for valuable, buying, selling or property investment tips, tricks and advice? Check out these other handy articles on our blog:
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DISCLAIMER: All recommendations made by We Connect Property are general in nature and not to be relied upon as legal or financial advice. To ensure accuracy, we always strongly recommend seeking independent, professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any investment or financial decisions.