LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
When you are thinking about moving, location and neighborhoods are usually a top consideration. You will probably have to make compromises, so think about your "must- haves" and your "would- like-to-haves.” In the following list below, our teammate Gina Barton helps outline the factors to consider when choosing your next location!
Important items to consider:
Schools: If you have kids or are single, researching school systems is always a recommendation. Determine if the schools in the neighborhood meet your children’s educational needs. Check their ratings with the local school board and ask for feedback from other parents who have children in the schools.
Commute: What will be your main mode of commuting-car, train, bus, walking? Are you close to commuter routes, train stations, etc? Also, research the neighborhood’s proximity to your schools, hospitals, grocery stores, parks, and other essential facilities.
Affordability: Research the cost of living in different neighborhoods and match them up with your budget and lifestyle.
Mature neighborhood or a new development? Older neighborhoods have tons of character, newer developments have more modern features.
Future Development: Will your neighborhood experience transformations that may alter your quality of life? Is there planned construction that could affect your access to amenities? Research the neighborhood’s zoning regulations, developments, or construction projects to avoid unpleasant surprises.
What is your current neighborhood/community lacking? What is your current neighborhood missing? Do you want access to more parks and trails or perhaps you are looking to be able to walk to restaurants or stores.
Crime statistics: Many real estate sites have statistics that tell you how the zip code's crime rates measure up to the national average. If you want specifics, call the local police station.
Neighborhood associations: Does the community you're looking at have one, and, if so, are there restrictions or an annual fee? What does the fee include?
Once you have narrowed down your top neighborhoods, you can take it one step further:
Visualize yourself in the neighborhood. Think of your daily routine. Where will you walk your dog or go jogging? How do you feel when you look around at the neighborhood surroundings?
Observe the neighborhood at different times of the day. Driving through will help you get a snapshot of life in the community. Are neighbors and kids socializing or do people keep to themselves? Are the streets well-lit at night?
Stop and listen. Is there noise from the highway, airport, hospital, train tracks, schools or nearby restaurants and bars?
Choosing the right neighborhood involves considering factors like your lifestyle, budget, safety, and proximity to work or school. Evaluating amenities, community vibe, and future growth potential are important!
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