Focus on areas that meet your needs, budget and personal taste. Talk with a Real Estate Broker Angie Adams. She will assist you and research the different neighborhoods before making a decision.
Good Neighborhood and their Qualities
Whether it's a tree-lined street of historic homes or a new golf course community in the suburbs, good neighborhoods often shares common traits such as access to employment, shopping, transportation and good schools. Parks, low crime and evidence that residents take pride in their area are other important factors. Quality neighborhoods have residents that are interested in improving both their neighborhood and community.
What is the right Neighborhood for Me?
Your ideal neighborhood should be a place where you feel at home and that makes your daily life easier to manage. But how do you find the right place, especially if you're relocating from out of town? A great place to start is with your real estate agent, who can help you identify areas that fit your needs, while also providing advice about schools, community services and property taxes. Angie Adams can provide great resources and information about communities.
You should get to know the Neighbors
One of the best ways to research a neighborhood is by simply walking down the street and introducing yourself to residents. Ask them what they like best about the area, and if there are any problems you might not be aware of. Do they have a neighborhood association? Is there a strong sense of community? Are homes holding their value? You should also visit prospective neighborhoods at various times of day. Some areas may not feel as safe at night, or you may find that your quiet neighborhood turns into a speedway during the weekday rush hour commute.
Neighborhood Considerations
Convenience to employment, shopping and entertainment
Adequate police and fire protection, with good access to hospital and medical facilities
Active neighborhood association and/or neighborhood watch program.
Look for pride of ownership, with well-maintained properties. In transitional areas, look for evidence of people renovating properties and new businesses opening up.
Reasonable traffic patterns or access to mass transit. Be wary of areas that are heavily used by cut-through traffic.
Quality schools and availability of daycare
Parks, bike trails and other recreational facilities.
Steadily appreciating property values
More homeowners than renters
For new developments, complimentary zoning of nearby areas.
Interested in a New Subdivision?
Because they haven't had time to fully mature, new developments are often a bit more difficult to research than established neighborhoods. Nevertheless, many of the same factors (employment, transit, schools etc.) that apply to traditional neighborhoods are just as important in newly developed areas. You should also pay special attention to the zoning and transportation planning for any undeveloped areas nearby. After all, you don't want your peaceful home in the suburbs to later end up next door to the parking lot for a new shopping center.
Summary Points
1. Good neighborhoods share many traits in common, including convenient access to employment, shopping, transit and schools.
2. Work with your real estate broker Angie Adams to identify areas that meet your personal needs and budget, and then follow up by visiting the neighborhood and talking with residents.
3. Don't write off areas that may be in the process of improving.
4. In new developments, research the zoning for nearby areas.
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