An increasing number of Canadian and American real-estate agents and websites have begun to use a new term called 'walk score' when discussing properties. The tool, which can be found at walkscore.com, helps measure the number of shops and services within a short walking distance from any given property. It is believed that this tool has become especially important in the current economic climate, as walking to public transport, grocery stores, etc. save money while also increasing personal health.
A new report from Smart Growth BC just released the findings that some components of the physical environment ‘within a kilometre of a person's residence are significantly associated with a lower likelihood of being overweight. Residents of neighbourhoods with the highest proportion of street retail, for example, were found half as likely to be overweight as residents of neighbourhoods that are but islands in a sea of parking lots.’
From this study, it can be concluded that 'walkability' should be a part of all real estate listings since the neighbourhood affects both personal health and money. Also, when discussing urban planning, health advocates should play a role in order to ensure that future communities include an adequate level of walkability.
Source: Vancouver Sun, 2 May 2009.