Choosing the Right Neighborhood

Choosing the Right Neighborhood  

There are certainly many factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood that’s right for you.  Neighborhoods may have a variety of characteristics and personalities that are suited for singles, growing families, two-career couples, or retirees.  It is important to investigate different communities and neighborhoods to determine if you purchased a home in that area would it fit your personality and lifestyle.

It is very important that you scout out the neighborhood personally.  I have had past clients ask me what is that neighborhood like, and is there a lot of crime in the area? Even though I may share my knowledge and experience with various communities and neighborhoods, I always insist the my clients go into the neighborhood and speak with some of the neighbors. Neighbors will tell you everything you want to know, and perhaps, even some things you didn’t want to know. I have often suggested to my clients to drive by the area at night, and see what goes on after dark. Lot’s of strange things may happen after dark in some locations. Going on the intranet and checking out the police reports and blotters for various areas is always a good idea too. If the buyers are concerned about sex offenders, there are web sites to check out to see who has registered in the community.

Remember, you live in more than your house.  Talk to people who live there.  Drive through the entire area at different times of the day, morning, afternoon, evening, and late at night, as well as going 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. Did you see any graffiti on the fences or mail boxes? This could be a sign of gang activity.

There are other things to consider in selecting a neighborhood.  Look for things like access to major thoroughfares, highways, and shopping. Listen for noise created by commerce, roads, railways, public areas, schools, etc.  Smell the air for adjacent commerce or agriculture.  Check with local civic, police, fire, and school officials to find information about the area. Research things like soil and water.  Look at traffic patterns around the area during different times of the day and drive from the area to work.  Is the neighborhood near parks, churches, recreation centers, shopping, theaters, restaurants, public transportation, schools, etc.?  Does the neighborhood belong to a Homeowners’ Association?

I had a recent post that showed Why I Choose My Neighborhood.  If Hunters Chase sounds like a neighborhood you would be interested in, you may wish to check out the available homes for sale on my website at San Antonio Real Estate.  Then Contact Me for our initial buyer’s consultation and a showing appointment.

(Clip Arts are Courtesy of Microsoft Office)