Choosing the Right Neighborhood
How do you choose the right neighborhood when purchasing a home? Making sure you’re not moving to a “nightmare on elm street” can be difficult if you don’t do the leg work first. While many will tell you it’s impossible to know what you’re getting before living there for a while, I say that’s not true. Investigate and use the talents of your real estate agent.
Every well dressed street is not perfect and some have hidden qualities you may want to pass on. Imagine moving into your dream home only to find you are right in the center of party central every Friday night. Beer bottles and loud music, or the noisy neighbor, who knows what time you missed the UPS driver and better yet, she knows what you ordered? Many residents enjoy a tight knit community who watch out for each other and frequently takes the initiative to investigate every sight, sound and visitor but what about the homeowner who enjoys privacy? You’ve got some work ahead of you.
Check the neighborhood Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Take a drive around the various areas to see what type of activity commences in the morning and evening and after 8pm. Why? When do most families settle down? After dinner when dishes are done and prime time television begins. You would expect your neighborhood to be peaceful during the peak times you want to relax so it’s expected that you look around during those times. If there’s too much activity perhaps this isn’t the neighborhood for you.
Everyone really has different criteria. Perhaps you work during the night and are home all day; you may want quiet during the times you’re at home so it’s advantageous for you to ensure there is little activity during the day. But don’t stop there…
How much foot traffic is on your street?
Is it well lit in the area?
What are the crime trends, if any?
What about schools, parks and community developments?
What type of people does the area attract?
How far are police and fire stations from the neighborhood?
Keep in mind you can call the local police station and ask questions about any neighborhood. Crime statistics are also available for any neighborhood and will give you insight into any areas you need to be concerned about.
Choosing the right neighborhood is forming a new relationship and this takes real consideration. A home is a big investment and who wants to make a large purchase only to find out you loathe the neighborhood?
Your real estate agent can provide all the details about a neighborhood for you but you can always take a few precautionary steps to ensure your future happiness.
