What to check pocket by pocket
In Central and the original streets near Harwood and Kings Crescent, the houses are small and often extended, so look at permits for additions, the age of the electrical service and whether the basement has been lowered or waterproofed. Along the waterfront south of Bayly, ask about the lot's relationship to the creek or the lake and whether the conservation authority has any say over future work. In Central West near Pickering Village, older homes may carry heritage interest and mature trees that shade a whole lot. North of Rossland, the questions are about the builder, the grading between houses and what the empty land nearby is planned for. At every stop, note whether the seller has fixed an offer date, because a busy Ajax open house often precedes a competitive offer night.