Canadians overlook cellphone, internet in recreational properties
Quality cellphone reception and internet are often forgotten factors for buyers when looking at a recreational property, a new survey reveals.
Royal Lepage recently surveyed 275 realtors specializing in recreational properties across Canada asking them to rank the most important factors to consider when buying a cottage or other vacation property that buyers often overlook. Quality of cellphone reception and internet access ranked first with 33 per cent of respondents noting buyers often forget to consider this factor when looking at a recreational property.
Understanding that “on the water” does not necessarily mean “waterfront” for a property ranked second with 15 per cent of respondents noting buyers often believe this means private access, as opposed to the property backing onto a public beach, for example.
The third most commonly overlooked important consideration is the source of potable water — whether it comes from the lake or a well — at about 13 per cent.
Rounding out the Top 5 often not considered but important factors are not knowing about short- and long-term rental rules, and seasonality and maintenance consideration. About eight per cent of respondents indicated buyers often don't think of these factors when looking at recreational properties. Other overlooked considerations included snow removal on roads, access to garbage and recycling services, and regulations regarding motorized watercraft.
The survey did not make regional distinctions among buyers, however, it did offer insights by province regarding what season buyers typically considering making recreational property purchases. British Columbian respondents considered every season the right time to buy, while Ontarians indicated spring was the best season. Alberta realtors also noted spring as the best season for purchasing a property.