Buying the house itself is only part of home buying. When you buy a new home, you choose a brand new place to live. In some cases, that place might be unfamiliar or far away from where you lived before. So, it's important to keep the local area in mind during your search. But how can you determine whether a neighborhood is right for you? Here are some basic questions to ask to learn more about your new neighborhood:
Is it Safe?
It's quicker than ever to find an area's crime statistics on the internet or through local law enforcement, but that will only tell you so much. When trying to determine how safe a neighborhood might be, you can ask questions like:
- Are there "neighborhood watch" signs or official neighborhood security?
- Is there enough street lighting at night?
- Do the home's exteriors seem generally well kept?
- Are there a lot of other properties for sale or rent?
These are only a few of the details to consider, but a great place to begin when trying to learn about neighborhood safety. If possible, try visiting your new neighborhood a few times to get an in-person feel of the area.
What Schools Will I Have Access To?
If you have children in your household or are planning to in the future, school districts will make a big difference. The quality and choices of schools nearby is a great thing to research to see where your new neighborhood would fit among the options. Try comparing statistics like dropout rates, test scores and reviews from both parents and students.
If you're interested in adult education or specialist training, check to see what options your new neighborhood provides. While you won't be restricted by districts in the same way as primary schools, ease of access can make a significant difference in your education and overall quality of life.
These are only a few things to keep in mind when researching a potential new neighborhood. The more you can learn about an area before you move, the more likely you are to feel at-home.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.