Neighbourhood Amenities Valued By Buyers

There are several neighborhood amenities that can significantly add to a home’s appeal. How valuable each neighbourhood amenity is will vary from buyer to buyer. Just as buyers have a specific wish list for home features, their specific lifestyle, wants, and needs will also impact how important different amenities are to them and how close they want to be.

As buyers are considering different neighbourhoods and picking their perfect location, here are some factors that may come into play.

Driving to amenities

Close proximity to certain key amenities may impact which neighbourhoods a buyer is interested in looking at. For example, some people will want quick access to major highways like the 401 and Highway 7/8, especially if they commute to work. Whereas buyers who work from home may value proximity to grocery stores, banks, and shopping plazas more.

Families will likely put high value on school zones and nearby parks.

Others may put emphasis on proximity to key locations that fuel their lifestyle, like golf courses, ski hills, community centre, and walking and biking trails.

Walking to amenities

Buyers could even be focused on amenities within the neighbourhood, or places they can walk to. For some, being able to walk to a downtown core is essential for visiting local restaurants, coffee shops, and pubs.

Sometimes a “Walk Score” is referenced in a property description to indicate how many amenities are within walking distance of an address. You can search Walk Scores here. You can also learn a transit score and how bikeable and address is.

Speaking of transit, some buyers are looking to specifically be walking (or biking) distance to public transit (the bus or the Ion), or easy access to GO stations.

Rural area amenities

For more rural areas, the biggest need is how far a family will be from their everyday needs and amenities like the grocery store. Buyers will consider their desired driving time. Typically we see that 10-15 minutes seems to be the sweet spot.

Every buyer has different needs so it’s important to highlight all types of amenities to a potential buyer who may be considering your home.

Saught-after Neighbourhood Amenities

Here are some more examples of amenities that buyers may have on their wish list:

Quality Schools: Proximity to well-rated public or private schools is often a top consideration for families with children. Homes in neighborhoods with good schools may command higher prices.
Parks and Green Spaces: Access to parks, playgrounds, trails, and other outdoor recreational areas can enhance a neighborhood’s appeal. Green spaces contribute to a sense of community and offer opportunities for leisure and exercise.
Retail and Dining: Proximity to shopping centers, grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes can increase convenience and quality of life for residents. Walkable neighborhoods with diverse retail options tend to be more desirable.
Public Transportation: Easy access to public transportation hubs such as subway stations, bus stops, or commuter rail lines can make a neighborhood more attractive, especially for urban dwellers who rely on public transit for commuting.
Cultural and Entertainment Venues: Neighborhoods with theaters, museums, art galleries, music venues, and other cultural attractions often have a vibrant atmosphere and appeal to residents interested in arts and entertainment.
Community Centers and Libraries: Facilities such as community centers, libraries, and recreational centers provide spaces for social gatherings, educational activities, and community events, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Safety and Security: Low crime rates, well-lit streets, and active neighborhood watch programs can make residents feel safer and increase property values.
Healthcare Facilities: Proximity to hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and other healthcare facilities can be a significant asset, particularly for families and seniors who prioritize access to medical services.
Gyms and Fitness Centers: Access to gyms, fitness centers, yoga studios, or sports facilities appeals to health-conscious individuals and families seeking opportunities for exercise and wellness activities.
Dog Parks and Pet-Friendly Amenities: For pet owners, neighborhoods with dog parks, pet-friendly establishments, and nearby veterinary clinics are highly desirable.

These amenities can vary in importance depending on the preferences and priorities of potential buyers, but collectively they contribute to the overall desirability and value of a neighborhood.