You will never find perfect. Write a list of what you want in the house and a separate one for the location. Prioritise the lists. A place that meets the criteria for the top 5 or so on each list is ideal. For us criteria we considered for house 3 bedrooms , certain price point, off street parking, yard for kids, separate toilet. Wishlist ensuite, garage, large yard. For location public transportation access, community facilities euch as local pool, library, medical etc. Wishlist walk to beach.

Nothing is perfect, might need to scale back your expectations.

We love the area that we rent in but would have to consider a different area if we are ever able to buy as it is too expensive to buy here.

We considered distance to work, size and reputation of the school and amount of stuff nearby to do. We also checked out crime maps to check amount of break ins etc in the area we rent in.

A benefit to renting is our last area went downhill fast with lots of crime and we were able to relocate without drama at the end of the lease. We hated the last area we lived in.

Honestly if ever we were to buy if would only come down to what we could afford as our entry price would be very low so our options would be limited.

Well we got the best place we could afford near to where our jobs are. Our house is pretty outdated in style but its in a really nice area so we can fix the style later on.

Have you considered for primary school having two places ? During summer near the beach and during winter near the country/snow?

You don’t have to own just rent - Make sure you are in a zoned school area in the city and advise the principal they have to keep you in the school.
Also, primary school doesn’t matter.