Different people have different property needs, especially when it comes to selecting neighbourhoods. While the most important criteria will vary from one person to another depending on their needs, there are some basic factors that everyone should consider. These include proximity to their place of work, entertainment centres and places of worship. Often, this all comes down to choosing the right location for your home.

Jumia House takes a closer look at question property­seekers should ask themselves before choosing a location to buy or rent a home.

Location

There are many facets of the location that need to be considered before renting or purchasing a property in that neighbourhood. Is it a quiet neighbourhood or a noisy one? In Accra, there are certain neighbourhoods that have a very vibrant night life. Will you be affected by the noise, and could it interrupt your sleep?

Again, is that neighbourhood close to your place of work? What is the traffic situation from your neighbourhood to your workplace? Driving from a place like East Legon to Accra in the mornings around 7am can take commuters about three hours. Are you willing to leave your house at dawn just to avoid traffic? Is there public transport and access to good roads?

What is the power situation in that neighbourhood? In Ghana currently, the power crisis is seen to be more severe in certain neighbourhoods than others. Conduct a research before you move to that location. How is water provision in the neighbourhood? Will the Ghana Water Company Limited be providing you with water? If yes, is it on a regular basis? Certain neighbourhoods do not have access to water, therefore the need to purchase water. Can you afford to look for water each day or will you purchase a water tank?

If you have children, what kinds of schools are available in that neighbourhood? Do they have to walk to the school or will they need to be transported each day?

Recreational centres are also important. What is the distance from your neighbourhood to the nearest club, pub or cinema? Where is the nearest supermarket or shop?

Our top advice: think about how living in that particular neighbourhood works with your daily routine before deciding on a location.