Finding a nice home is a dream of many – a haven that has all the amenities and is within the budget. But there is more to this than meets the eye. Your neighborhood is where you will meet new people, attend events and run errands. So you’d want to be sure it isn’t infested by crime and has all the basic amenities.
Here are 8 things you should consider about the neighborhood when buying your new home with the help of a relator.
1. Is the Neighborhood Safe?
A good way to check this is by going to the police department’s website and looking up crime statistics in the area. Another great way is by talking to the neighbors. They will be able to tell you if they ever feel unsafe and what incidents have occurred in the past. You can also take a walk around the block and see for yourself. If the vibe doesn’t feel right, it might not be the place for you.
2. Visit the Nearby Schools
If you have kids or plan on having any in the future, you’ll obviously want to make sure that the schools in the area are up to par. Research the test scores and talk to other parents in the neighborhood to get a feel for the school system.
3. Ask Around
Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to start talking to people – and not just the neighbors. Talk to the cashier at the grocery store, the barista at the coffee shop, your realtor, and anyone else who might be able to give you some insight into what the neighborhood is really like.
A few questions you can ask include:
- How long have they lived in the area?
- Do they enjoy it?
- What are people like?
- Do they feel safe?
- Is it a family-friendly area?
4. Compare Housing Prices
We’re sure you obviously don’t want to overspend on your home. Check out the prices of other houses in the area to get a good idea of what your home is worth and what you should be paying for a home in the neighborhood.
5. Research About the Job Market
If you’re planning on moving to a new area for work, you’ll want to make sure that jobs are available. Research the job market and see if there are any companies in the area you’re interested in working for. You can also talk to people who work in the area and see if they’re happy with their jobs.
6. Check the Cost of Living
The cost of living includes more than just your mortgage or rent payments. It also encompasses the cost of groceries, gas, utilities, and other necessities. Before buying a home, be sure to research the cost of living in the area to see if you can afford it.
7. Assess the Traffic
Chances are, you’re not a fan of the traffic in your present neighborhood. You’d want to have your new neighborhood free from traffic to make running errands and dropping kids to school feel like a breeze. Talk to people who live in the area and see how long it takes them to get to work. You can also check out the traffic reports online to get an idea of the roads during rush hour.
8. Inquire About the Amenities
Lastly, you’ll want to make sure that the neighborhood has all the amenities that you need. This includes things like grocery stores, banks, libraries, and parks. You should also consider whether or not there are public transportation options available.
After all the above things you will wish to know about the nightlife, outdoor dining restaurants, parks for kids and other activitis like boating. We have a city in mind which is Lake Charles. eXp Realty highlights why people are moving to Lake Charles and why this city is the hot choice by offering all such things.
Final Word
Choosing the right neighborhood is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Be sure to do your research and visit the area before making a final decision. If you have any questions, ask us in the comments.
Also read: Home Renovation Ideas for Renting out in San Francisco
