Considering Living Beside Train Tracks?
The Market Is On 🔥Fire --
You've lost out on 5 houses already.
You find another house that’s perfect, but it’s right beside train tracks...
With these bidding wars,
is that a compromise you're willing to make?
It’s easy to get caught up in having the "Winning Offer" -- to finally be the ones excited at the end of a stressful night of waiting in anticipation -- but sometimes we need to pause & make sure you’re really ready to live with said compromise!
So in this case, the line is a stones throw to Gage Park 🌳
& it’s easy to want to look past the railway tracks -- but
what drawbacks should you consider before taking the leap?
• Noise Pollution - Not just the chug-a-lug of a low speed train... it’s also the sound of breaks gripping, squeaky wheels in need of oil & the occasional train whistling off (blowing the horn)
• Air Pollution - Definitely a focal point when considering living long term beside these diesel powered trains...
Ask yourself -- Are you all about the open windows & fresh air? Or are you happier with the windows closed, AC cranked? Do you dream of hanging out in the yard, or are you more of an inside person? Your enjoyment of your home will depend on these answers -- and if anyone in your home suffers from asthma, be aware that studies show living beside the tracks increases the frequency of attacks.
•
Vibrations - Now, it’s not as blatant a concern, but homes very close to the tracks may feel the effects of the vibrations -- especially older homes. It’s important to have the home inspected to make sure there are no foundation issues to keep an eye on.
If you can’t get it inspected before you offer (if you can, do!), be sure to have someone in to take a look once you move in.
• Resale Value - You need to be fully aware going in that your home will sell for less than a home not backing onto the tracks… unless it’s walkable to the GO Station, it’s not considered a plus.
Ask your REALTOR® how much it will affect your value if you were to sell.
• Access Point - backing onto any open space, be it a bike path or a train track, increases the allure of your home. There are ways to discourage any potential damage or theft by using flood lights, cameras & other security measures.
Remember, not all places are affected the same, but it is something to weigh out in your mind!
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Traffic/Congestion - Frequent trains can really slow you down when it comes to getting around as well. Pay attention to if you’ll be constantly stopped at the railway crossing or if you’ve got options
The biggest tip is to find out how often a train goes by -- Ultimately, that plays the biggest role in how much a track could be a nuisance & who knows, you may luck out & be on an abandoned line 🤞🏽
Real estate is not easy to navigate, despite how easy it can look -- I'm here for you if you ever have any questions about the market or real estate in general!
If you're not looking in the Hamilton, Burlington & Surrounding Areas, still reach out & I can connect you with a great REALTOR® where ever you are 😊 Keep it Genuine ✌🏽
The Genuine Blog
