Are you thinking of buying a house or condo located near a train line, highway, or busy boulevard? Maybe you already own such a property? Proximity to transportation infrastructure presents many advantages, but it also comes with its share of daily annoyances.
Several factors deserve careful consideration before submitting a purchase offer!
A Nearby Train Line: Chugging Along?
The Pros…
Living just a few minutes’ distance from a railway station can be a big advantage, especially for people who regularly use public transit to get to work.
This can reduce the time spent commuting as well as gas and parking costs.
Proximity to a railway station may also attract prospective buyers who wish to rely less on their car. Depending on the area, this type of infrastructure could help maintain the property’s resale appeal over time.
And Cons
Passing trains, warning signals, vibrations, and railway operations can disrupt the peace and quiet, particularly at night.
Noise levels vary depending on the type of railway track, traffic frequency, train speeds, and the noise mitigation measures in place. Good to know: Generally, noise disturbances are limited to properties within a few metres of the tracks. Nevertheless, the distance isn’t the only factor that determines how much noise one will be exposed to.
The park-and-ride facilities that usually accompany a new station in a neighbourhood can also lead to increased street traffic.
It’s therefore wise to visit the property at different times of the day and to check the quality of the window insulation before buying.
Living by a Highway: Right or Wrong Turn?
The Pros…
On the one hand, a house near a highway can provide easier access to work, shops, and neighbouring municipalities for drivers. This location can prove very practical for households that use their car regularly.
This could be a crucial factor for buyers who don’t want to have to drive 20 minutes just to go to the supermarket.
And Cons
On the other hand, road traffic generates noise, which can even be heard inside the house if it’s poorly insulated. The recurring sound of motorcycle engines revving and heavy trucks rumbling can be exhausting.
Traffic-related air pollution bears consideration, as exposure to pollutants generally increases near major roads.
Proximity to a highway can also influence a neighbourhood’s character, namely by impeding pedestrian access to certain amenities or by creating a barrier between residential areas.
Hence the importance of checking the immediate surroundings:
- Are there noise screens?How is the house oriented?
- Does the backyard face the highway or no?
- Is there lots or little vegetation?
- Is the home next to the highway’s onramps and offramps or further away?
A Busy Thoroughfare: Is It a Nightmare?
The Pros…
A property situated near a busy street or a commercial boulevard can offer quick access to grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, and other local shops and businesses. This proximity can make everyday errands easier and reduce travelling distances.
Plus, some boulevards boast bike lanes and are served by buses to encourage car-free mobility.
And Cons
Nevertheless, traffic, traffic lights, commercial deliveries, and nearby business activities may cause noise, the same as the highway.
Pulling in or out of a driveway can also be challenging during periods of heavy traffic.
Pedestrian safety must also be carefully considered, particularly if there are children in the household. The presence of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and safe intersections can really improve daily life.
Evaluating the Potential Impact on Resale Value
How proximity to transport infrastructure impacts a property’s price depends, amongst other things, on area demand, access to services, nuisance levels, and the building’s characteristics.
Before submitting an offer, visiting the neighbourhood at different times of the day is recommended, as is looking into any announced infrastructure projects and having the property inspected. A real estate broker can also help you compare the prices of similar properties to better understand how their location affects their value.