What's More Important: Style or Location?

What’s more important when it comes to buying a home? The style and size of the house? Or the neighborhood that the home is in?

We posed this question to our RE/MAX Influencers—a panel consisting of RE/MAX Sales Associates throughout Canada—to get their thoughts on what’s more important: style or location?

91% said “Location” is most important

Of course the debate between style or location will always come down to the client’s preference; however, from a re-sale point of view, it’s better to choose an appealing neighborhood, according to many of our Influencers.

“Your home is not an isolated island. For investment purposes down the road, it might be tougher to sell a nice house in an unappealing community,” says Gerry Footz, RE/MAX Elite.

Another consideration is that it’s much easier to upgrade your home than your neighborhood. A great neighborhood will always maintain the value of your home. You can always fix up a house and get a good return on your investment.

“A building could be renovated at the right price. Negative externalities of the neighborhood can’t be immediately fixed, such as railroad tracks next door,” says Bryan Furman, RE/MAX Results Realty.

A great location is also ideal from a lifestyle point of view. Many families share a vehicle; therefore, it is incredibly important that they live within walking or cycling distance of work, schools and/or shops.

“Choosing a home that is in—or close to—the neighborhood where you spend your time working or socializing causes less stress than having to commute,” says Karen Carter, RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside.

9% said “Style and Size of the home” is most important

Although most of our Influencers believe in the phrase, “location, location location,” there were still a handful of respondents who argued the style and size of the home is most critical to make sure it matches the needs of the client.

For example, if you move into a house that is smaller than what you were hoping for, although the location might perfect, the cramped home may impact your emotional wellbeing on a daily basis.

“You live in your house every day. If the layout doesn’t fit you or your family, it won’t work. Of course location is very important, but don’t compromise your biggest investment.

All of our RE/MAX Influencers agreed that they will work their hardest to make sure you get the right home to fit your needs, in the best neighborhood possible.