Map the weekly life
Plot work, care, school where relevant, healthcare, groceries, recreation, worship, and support networks. Test routes at realistic times and include the household member with the least flexible schedule.
Test transportation choices
Compare driving, transit, walking, cycling, and paratransit where relevant. Check first- and last-mile conditions, parking, weather exposure, accessibility, service hours, and a backup route.
Verify utilities and internet
Identify water, sewer or septic, electric, gas, waste, and internet providers for the parcel. Confirm service, installation, fees, equipment, speeds at the address, and maintenance responsibilities directly.
Check essential services
Measure access to the healthcare, pharmacy, emergency, shopping, parks, library, and community services the household actually expects to use. Operating hours and eligibility can matter as much as distance.
Read plans for future growth
Review comprehensive plans, zoning maps, development proposals, road programs, utility extensions, and parks or trail plans. Public plans describe intentions and processes, not guaranteed outcomes.
Score the tradeoffs
Record what improves, what becomes harder, what costs more, and what remains uncertain. Compare at least two locations using the same criteria before property features create momentum.