The Neighborhood

There are many factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood that is right for you.  Think about the location in terms of commute time to work, distance from leisure-time activities, and proximity to shopping, schools , or any other places you frequent.  Or you may think of other factors that are important to you. 

Scout of the neighborhood!

• It is important that you scout the neighborhood in person. 
• Talk to people who live there 
• Drive through the entire area at different times of the day, during the week, and on weekends 
• Look carefully at how well other homes in the area are being maintained - are they painted; are the yards well cared for; are parked cars in good condition?

Neighborhood factors to consider

• Look for things such as access to major thoroughfares, highways, and shopping 
• Listen for noise created by commerce, roads, railways, public areas, schools, etc. 
• Smell the air for nearby industry or agriculture
• Check with local civic, police, fire, and school officials to find information about the area 
• Research environmental topics such as soil and water quality, as well as floodplain implications 
• Study traffic patterns around the area at different times of the day and measure drive time from the area to work 
• Is the neighborhood near parks, places of religious worship, recreation centers, shopping, theaters, restaurants, public transportation, schools, etc? 
• Does the neighborhood have a Homeowner’s Association?