It's easy to be overwhelmed by the idea of finding the perfect home for you in an entire city. It can be helpful to focus on specific neighbourhoods instead. Here are five of the top Edmonton neighbourhoods you may want to explore:
Oliver
Oliver clearly appeals to a lot of people; the neighbourhood has one of the highest populations in Edmonton. The appeal has lasted a long time, as the area is filled with historic homes built over 100 years ago. Like Strathcona, there are a large number of shops and restaurants. Close enough to be considered an extension of Downtown, Oliver enjoys a view of the river valley and Paul Kane Park provides green space right in the centre of the neighbourhood.
Downtown
Part of the appeal of Downtown is, of course, that it's downtown. It's long been a great location if you want to be close to your office even in your off hours. But Downtown is no longer just a weekday, workday, location. New shops, restaurants, and condos make it appealing any time, any day. You also have easy access to all the arts and entertainment in the Arts District and a large number of events in Churchill Square. If you like loft living, look into new developments in the Warehouse District.
Westmount
Westmount contains two different parts in one locale. There's a trendy shopping district with lively cafes and unique restaurants. There are also shady streets where residents enjoy relaxing quietly in their yards. Westmount Park offers baseball diamonds, soccer fields, playgrounds, and an ice rink to pursue your hockey passion. There are paths for cycling and hiking around the neighbourhood.
Strathcona
Strathcona is one of the liveliest neighbourhoods you'll find with more than 600 businesses. Walk to a restaurant when you want to dine out, or head to the farmer's market to buy fresh produce when you want to dine in. You're likely to be entertained by street buskers as you stroll around. The area maintains a classic style, as it is a heritage district. The central location gives easy access to the river valley and scenic routes for running or biking.
Garneau
If you're a scholar, consider living in Garneau, which is home to Alberta's university. Housing prices are often lower here because of the large student population. The neighbourhood caters to students with many cafes where they can debate intellectual issues. The neighbourhood isn't all students though; it's a diverse population of all ages. This is one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods and many of the historic homes enjoy shade from large old trees.
Of course, don't base your decision on what neighbourhood to search based solely on something you read online. Visit these neighbourhoods, and others, to make sure they feel right for you. And while this can help focus your search, if your Realtor suggests a home in another area, be open to exploring it just in case your ideal home is in another part of town.
Posted by Terry Paranych on
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