7 Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood to Live In
There are all sorts of factors to take into consideration when purchasing a home. Understandably, your number one priority will be to pick a neighborhood that is safe and secure. The amenities of the neighborhood are just as important to the property value of the house, so whether you’re after a modern condo in a thriving downtown location, or an area that gives you peace and quiet, here are a few tips for choosing the right neighborhood to live in.
Crime & Neighborhood Statistics
Living in a safe and secure neighborhood is one of the most important factors for most homebuyers, especially if you have children. Investigating the crime rates in the areas you are interested in and driving by at night can give you a better idea of what the environment is like. When purchasing a property, your information will likely pass through the municipal court records database. You can check out municipal court records from sites like Public Records Reviews. They offer a wide range of information and can also get a detailed list of possible neighbors and sex offenders in the area you plan to move to, helping to make sure you find a neighborhood that is safe and protected.
Proximity to Work
Many of us work longer hours than ever, so it’s important that you find a property and neighborhood that is relatively close to your employment. To start with, you should identify how far your commute is in the morning and after work, as well as whether you will be going with or against the flow of traffic. The last thing you want is to be further away from home, so for those who don’t want to spend extra time in traffic, finding a neighborhood that is within walking or driving distance is key. Finding a property that’s within reaching distance can help reduce stress levels and ensure you get to work on time.
Public Transportation
If you don’t have a vehicle and need to rely on public transport to get to and from work, it’s important that you find a neighborhood that has great public transport links. Whether you catch the bus, tram, or train to work, being in an area that has a regular service will minimize the risk of you being late.
School District
If you have children, it’s only natural that you will want to give them the best start in life. The type of school you pick for your kids can make all the difference, so finding a neighborhood with a good school district is vital. Not only will it mean your little ones get the education they deserve, but it can also have an impact on the resale of properties in your community. To help you, there are websites like Great Schools that give you the opportunity to research area schools and check what the school zoning is in the neighborhood you plan to move to.
The Neighbors
Not only can neighbors affect the sale of your home, but they can also have a huge impact on your quality of life. The last thing you want is to pick a neighborhood with residents who aren’t welcoming. We should all feel happy and comfortable in our homes, so to help make sure you’ve made the right decision, it’s best to take note of the condition of the neighborhood that catches your eye. Checking whether their homes are well-kept and clean from the outside can say a lot about an individual, so paying attention to noise levels, how close the houses are together, as well as the general atmosphere is important. If you have a gut feeling that the neighborhood isn’t right for you, it’s best to move on and find somewhere else, rather than sticking with the first option you see.
Access to Amenities
Another important thing to consider when picking the right neighborhood is how far certain amenities are. Whether it’s hospitals, grocery stores, or attractions, being within reaching distance of the things you need is crucial. While some homeowners like to live away from the hustle and bustle, others prefer to be close by to amenities, meaning they can stock up on essentials without having to venture out too far. Make sure to create a list of all the amenities that are most important to you, which can make the property search that little bit easier.
Future Development
Whether your goal is to stay in your home for 3 years or 30 years, the future development of the neighborhood is important. If you’re planning to move to an up and coming area, make sure to check whether there are any proposals or discussions for an expansion of the local district, such as a new library, or community center. The more amenities there are, the better value your home will be, especially when it comes to selling.
Whether you’re moving on your own, with friends, or as a family, finding a property that matches your needs is crucial. To ensure you feel safe and secure in your home, taking all the suggestions above into account will help you find the right neighborhood.
