Locating the Perfect Neighborhood
BuyerTips: Locating the Perfect Neighborhood
Charlottehas a multitude of areas, subareas, communities, subdivisions andneighborhoods and if you're new to the area, you really doneed aknowledgeable agent to guide you through the process of elimination asfar as neighborhoods are concerned.
There are a few goodsites that I recommend to my clients to learn moreabout the different areas/neighborhoods in Charlotte. First,you'll want to consult your agent and let him/her know, specifically,what you're looking for. If your agent is a CertifiedNeighborhood Specialist, he/she will be able to assist you in matchingyour current neighborhood to one very similar in your destination city. If at all possible, consult one in your destinationcity--you'llbe glad you did!
1. Make a list of all of theamenities that are near the neighborhood you areconsidering as your destination neighborhood. Keep in mind what distance is acceptable to and fromfrequentedlocations (work, school, worship) and the routes which you'll betaking. Map them to see if the traffic pattern is going to beeasy to alternate in the event of rush hour or accident traffic.
2. Determine the bestfeatures of a couple of neighborhoods; this is especially helpful if you are deciding between a few differentneighborhoods in a few different areas.
Are there parks located nearby? Where are they located?
Is the neighborhood scenic and visually appealing?
Are the people friendly?
Is the neighborhood clean?
Are there nice trees and foliage; are there evergreens for year-roundprivacy and beauty?
Are the lots large or small?
Are there sidewalks and are they easily accessible?
Is the neighborhood safe?
What are the market values of the homes in the area?
How many homes are for sale?
How long ago was the community developed?
Are residents making improvements and updating interiors to helpmaintain property values?
What are the age demographics in the area?
Are there families with small children in the area or is it an 'emptynest' community or a neighborhood of young professionals with orwithout children?
What is the proximity to schools?
Does the neighborhood have community events or an active homeowner'sassociation?
Are there any new nearby industrial or retail building planned for thefuture? Any power plants? Highways?
3. Take a stroll aroundthe neighborhood. The best way todetermine the cleanliness and friendliness of the neighborhood is towalk around in it and meet its residents.
4. Visit theneighborhood at different times of the day anddifferent days of the week. Are there people outand about in theneighborhood, walking, riding bikes, socializing?
Alotof these items cannot be adressed by your real estate agent because ofFair Housing but, as a Buyer, you can and should do yourhomework--taking the time to investigate will save you headache andhardship down the road. My clients are encouraged to visittheneighborhood and meet some of the neighbors. Discuss their likes anddislikes of their own neighborhood with the neighbors. Findtheanswers to some of your questions above.
Here are a few sites that Irecommend to help you answer the questions above are:
Localism 
TheMaxwellHouseGroup 
PublicSchools
Demographics 
Chamber of Commerce
Congratulations! You are now a well-informed Buyer and can narrow your listdownto the neighborhood that you know you'll enjoy living in for years tocome!
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About the author:
Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte ResidentialReal Estate Broker, Certified Neighborhood and Relocation Specialistwho can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate inCharlotte NC or any place in the country by connecting you with arelocation professional in your destination of choice. Debe has createda team of professionals throughout the country to ensure that youenjoy a smooth transition to your new area. These professionals areexperts in the field of relocation and can serve many purposes beyond asimple home search. The destination service is of no cost to you!Please visit www.TheMaxwellHouseGroup.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.
Debe Maxwell- 704.491.3310 - Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
Copyright© 2008 By Debe Maxwell, All Rights Reserved...*Buyer Tips: Locating the Perfect Neighborhood*
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