When buying a home in Mississauga, there are many factors to consider, such as location, layout, square footage, lot size, exposure, finishes and more. Oftentimes, the fine details, like granite countertops, hardwood flooring and updated kitchens or bathrooms, grab a buyer’s attention.
But, there is one important detail that some buyers forget, and that’s walkability.
Walkability goes above and beyond a great location. While your desired new home may be near amenities, such as schools, parks, places of worship, shopping and restaurants, it’s important to know how walkable your neighbourhood is.
According to Walk Score, a leading provider of international walkability measures, there are benefits associated with walkable neighbourhoods:
Health: The average resident of a walkable neighbourhood weighs six to 10 pounds less than someone who lives in a sprawling neighbourhood.
Environment: 87% of CO2 emissions are from burning fossil fuels. Walking, on the other hand, doesn’t contribute to excess pollution.
Finances: Cars are one of the largest household expenses. The less you rely on gas-powered transportation, the more you save.
Community: Walkability is associated with higher levels of arts organizations, creativity, and civic engagement.
To help you choose a Mississauga neighbourhood, Walk Score has outlined key factors to consider when determining walkability:
Centre: Walkable neighbourhoods have a centre, like a main street or public space.
People: Walkable neighbourhoods have enough people for businesses to flourish and for public transit to run frequently.
Mixed Income, Mixed Use: Walkable neighbourhoods have affordable housing located near businesses.
Parks and Public Spaces: Walkable neighbourhoods have plenty of public places to gather and play.
Pedestrian Design: Walkable neighbourhoods have buildings that are close to the street with parking behind.
Schools and Workplaces: Walkable neighbourhoods have schools and workplaces within walking distance from home.
Complete Streets: Walkable neighbourhoods have streets designed for bicyclists, pedestrians and transit.
When it comes to walkability, Mississauga walks the talk, ranking close to other metropolitan areas, including Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. City Centre, Port Credit, Streetsville, Clarkson and Hurontario, all offer proximity to great schools, parks, shopping, community centres, places of work and transit, making them ideal communities for those without access to a vehicle.
As a long-time Mississauga resident and real estate sales representative serving our community, I can help you find your next dream home in one of Mississauga’s walkable neighbourhoods. To learn more, contact me, Deborah Clerk, at Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage, for details.
Post a comment