There are a lot of things to
consider when choosing a house or neighbourhood in the suburbs. We all have
what we look out for and the truth remains that you can never have it all. There are however, certain basic things one should never overlook when making a choice
within the suburbs:
Security
It is very important to choose a
suburb, neighbourhood or compound that’s relatively safe, especially for couples
with children. When my hubby and I were looking for a house, though we had in
mind our budget limits, a secure neighbourhood was top on our list. We were
particular about a house with controlled access (fence and ate). You wouldn’t
want to see your kids riding their bikes or playing in the streets but in an
enclosed compound. There are some suburb neighborhoods that are just not safe,
especially for a young family with little children, so you would want to
consider this seriously before making that choice.
Clean Environment
Never underestimate the
importance of a relatively clean environment. It will keep you and your family
away from the hospital for a long time. While searching for a house, we were
taken to this very lovely house, but we rejected the house because of the environment.
The road leading to the house had all kinds of waste spilling out from
different sewage pipes; it was such a huge mess. When we spoke to some of the
occupants of the compound, they advised us not to risk it, as majority of them
were on the verge of parking out of the vicinity. We were informed that in the
evenings/nights, the smell around was very offensive. You would not want to
find yourself in such an unhealthy environment so make your findings properly.
Accessibility
Especially for car owners, you
don’t want to stay in an area where you would have to be visiting the mechanic
every day or a place where your visitors have to park their cars miles away and
trek/take a bike just to get to your doorstep….lol. The roads don’t have to be
like the express way, but it should be motorable enough for easy passage. You
don’t even want a place where cars or keke or bikes stop entering at certain
hours of the day or a neighbourhood where it could be a herculean task getting
any means of transportation. You also don’t want to live in a neighbourhood
that is very lonely. We have this family friend that got this very beautiful
house in a very lonely street, somewhere in Kubwa axis of Abuja. It was really lonely;
in fact, they shared boundary with a thick bush and rock. In less than 6months
armed robbers stated harassing the neighbourhood and they were forced to pack
out even before the expiration of the term of their lease.
Availability of Water.
There is nothing like a house
with water. I mean, if an area doesn’t have light, one can always use
generator, but a house that doesn’t have water is not to be considered at all
because life can really be miserable. Without water, everything is at a
standstill. You can’t cook, wash plates or clothes, clean the house, flush the
toilet or even have a bath. Water indeed is life. Before you say “yes” to that
house, make sure there is constant water running especially for a family. I
have had my fair share of experiences of living in a house without water, trust
me, its not something you wish for even your worst enemy. It can really be
frustrating having to depend on water vendors (Mai Ruwas’…as they are popularly
called). Ask questions and verify answers given by agents, because most of agents
are just after their agency fee, leaving you to face the reality on ground.
Water is life, don’t compromise this.
Affordability
Some houses even in the suburb
are just so ridiculously expensive. When you hear the amount, you just wonder
if the house is built with precious stones. Don’t be in such a hurry to
settle for a house that’s expensive because you are desperate. Take your
time, you will definitely find something affordable and just perfect. I am
talking out of experience. Especially for young couples who are about getting
married and desperately need a house…RELAX! The truth is, it’s not just about
paying the rent now, its about RENEWING IT! When we were "house-hunting", w found this very lovely house. Hubby
was already getting frustrated and wanted to settle for it but I didn’t bulge. He
tried to convince me but the price just didn’t make sense to me as it was way
beyond our budget. Finally, we got to find another house that was just what we
wanted for a much lesser amount. Don’t be in a hurry; don’t let any agent
confuse you. Know and stick to what you want! Shine your eye! LOL.
The House Itself
We all know how some landlords/builders are just out to make money, so the finishing of the house is not of importance
to them. Some houses are just badly built; the tiles are poorly fixed, the
walls are soaking water, no provision for adequate ventilation, the plumbing and electrical works are
badly done, everything is just not right. Please, don’t be in a hurry to pay
for that house. Carry out proper inspection, view things for yourself, point out any aspect which requires extra attention before you make payment and move in. Some agents will mount pressure on you to close the deal so they can get their fees. Never make that
mistake cos more often than not, once you move in, you are absolutely on your
own…lol.
A Serene Neighborhood Devoid of “Drama”
As much as possible, avoid a
compound/area that is noisy and "African Magic" drama-free. How
would you know you may ask? There are some compounds you enter and the body language of the existing occupants will not just seem right. Do your own background checks and
assessment…ask questions from other neighbours, I assure you, somehow you
should be able to gather one or two information about the compound and
neigbourhood.
You want to live in a
suburb/neigbourhood where you come home after a hard days job and relax and
possibly interact with friendly and lovely neighbours. You can achieve this.
I
hope you find these practical points useful in making that choice of your
dream neighbourhood/suburb.
