Wellesley is an excellent city with lots to offer. From educational institutions to recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone here. As you decide which neighborhood is right for you and your family, here are a few things to ask about the neighborhoods you explore.
Details About the School District
If you have young children, ask about the school district the neighborhood is in. Find out what the schools are like and if students there tend to perform well. You should be able to pull the MCAS as a 1st look at the school performance. In Wellesley all the schools tend to do well. You may also want to know about sports and extra curricular activities available to kids.
Proximity to Public Transportation
Wellesley has a great public transportation system that could help you get to work faster. Find out how close the neighborhood is to these options and whether or not it will be convenient for you. You may also want to calculate how long your commute will be.
Property Taxes
The property taxes for your neighborhood, and your home specifically, is one of the costs of owning the home. Make sure you fully understand what the taxes will be so you can decide if you can afford the home.
Average Utility Costs
Your utility cost will depend on your family size and use, but you can get an average cost from the seller and neighbors. When you know about what people in the neighborhood pay for electricity, gas, water and any other utilities, you'll have a better idea of what to expect each month.
If there is a Floodplain Nearby
If the neighborhood and your home are on a floodplain you'll be required to get special insurance. This will likely make your regular homeowner's insurance a little more expensive, so find out ahead of time if you'll have to pay for this.
Average Age of Residents
The average age of the neighborhood's residents can give you an idea of the type of people you'll be living close to. For example, if you have several young kids, you may be more interested in finding a neighborhood with young families and children.
Whether There are Any Neighborhood Issues
Unfortunately, there are nuisances in some neighborhoods. You can talk to the seller and some of the residents to find out if there is anything about the neighborhood you should be aware of.
Why the Seller is Moving
You can ask the seller why he or she is moving to get a feel for the neighborhood. Many times people move for jobs or for a change of pace, but if the seller is moving because of a problem in the neighborhood, you should know about it.
Laws About Pets
If you have pets be sure to ask about any laws or regulations that may dictate how many pets you can have or how you must house them. Not all neighborhoods have specific requirements, but it's better to find out if yours does before you move in.
What the Neighbors Think
The best people to give you a feel for the neighborhood are the people that live there. Don't be afraid to talk to a few neighbors and ask them what they like and dislike about the neighborhood. This will give you a chance to meet people and hear some honest opinions about the area.
Asking questions about a neighborhood before you make an offer on a Wellesley home for sale can help you decide if the house is the best fit for you and your family. If you are interested in learning more about the Wellesley real estate market, contact Christine Norcross at 781-929-4994.
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