Expert Panel
What are the truly important factors buyers should focus on when looking to buy a new home in today’s market? There’s no substitute for experience —including understanding the most important factors new home buyers should focus on. We talked to the following six experts to get their take: Greg Graham, Cardel Ottawa Regional President; Rahul Kochar, Vice-President of Operations of DCR/Phoenix Homes; Vince Campanale, Vice-President of Campanale Homes; Kevin O’Shea, Monarch Homes’ Director of Ottawa operations; Mattamy Homes Ottawa President Mark Parsons; and Marnie Bennett of Bennett Property Shop. Here is what these voices of experience say buyers should consider. They all agree on number one. Says Greg Graham, “Location, location, location remains the key objective.” All our experts put proximity to work, schools, shopping, transportation and transit, amenities, parks, paths, doctors’ offices, grocery stores, and entertainment venues first. Says Campanale, whose Longfields Station is a few seconds walk from the Transitway, a school, park, and bicycle path. “Being close to these amenities makes a very big difference to quality of life.” Location includes the community itself. Says Graham, “People want a nice-looking home in a nice setting, to be proud of where they live, and proud of the community they share.” O’Shea suggests considering the future. “Knowing what a community will represent through its evolution is as important as what it represents today. Parks, amenities and commuting time are all integral components.” Adds Kochar, “Compromises may have to be made regarding commute times. For example, a larger yard may mean living in a more rural setting.” As someone who has advised buyers Marnie Bennett has an additional slant. “Ensure you aren’t the castle on the street. Future buyers will look for homes in
GREG GRAHAM
Cardel Ottawa Regional President
“Location, location, location remains the key objective.” GREG GRAHAM 2013 Home Builders’ Annual
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