If you're shopping for a Carmel Indiana home, chances are you can rattle off a list of "must have" features without hesitation -- stainless steel appliances, hardwoods, updated fixtures, granite, surround sound. But what if your real estate agent asked you what you want in a neighborhood. Could you answer as quickly?  If "perfect neighborhood" isn't already at the top of your Wish List, it should be. After all, you can always add hardwood floors. Moving your dream home to your dream neighborhood--not so easy.

Here are a few considerations to help you select the ideal neighborhood where you can be a happy homeowner for years to come.

New development or established neighborhood? Each has its pros and cons. Obviously a new development is going to be, well, newer. New homes, new amenities, etc. Landscaping will also be new, which means you won't have the lush, homey feeling an established neighborhood can offer. And, unlike a mature neighborhood, a new development doesn't allow you to see the finished product, as construction will likely still be under way.

By Car or by Feet? Do you prefer a walkable neighborhood with sidewalks and nearby shopping and restaurants? Then a secluded country setting probably isn't for you. Fortunately, Carmel has plenty of great choices no matter what your preference!

Got Kids? If so, you'll want a neighborhood in a respected school district, which in Carmel is no problem since its schools are rated among the highest in Indiana! Check out the Carmel Clay Schools Web site at www.ccs.k12.in.us or www.greatschools.org to see for yourself. You should also consider how close you want to be to your child's school, and make sure that the nearest schools offer any special programs your child needs.

Who rules? Neighborhood associations provide protection for homeowners, spelling out neighborhood rules and regulations. They also add an additional cost to home ownership with mandatory yearly, or even monthly, fees. Your real estate agent can tell you if a particular neighborhood has an HOA.

Come to Your Senses. Visit your desired neighborhood and visit often, using all your sensory powers. A seemingly peaceful neighborhood may suddenly come alive -- and not in a good way -- when school is out. That sewage lift station around the corner may be more fragrant in the afternoons than the early mornings. Lots of For Sale and For Lease signs are not a good sign.

Finally, go with your gut. If it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. And vice versa. If a neighborhood gives you warm fuzzies as soon as you enter it, that's a good thing!

Searching Carmel homes? I can help! Contact your Carmel real estate agent today.