Finding the right neighborhood to move into can affect the quality of your life greatly. A great neighborhood could mean a safer environment, more friends for you and your kids, better educational opportunities for your kids, and more. So, what do you need to look for when considering which neighborhood to move into? Here are some factors to consider.
Factor #1 Schools
Schools play a big part in how real estate properties are priced. You may notice that houses in districts where schools are known to be better are more expensive compared to houses in the neighboring areas. Some buyers even target a specific area/district to move into just for the schools. If you have children, this would be a good factor to look into before making your next move.
Factor #2 Crime Rate and Safety
No one wants to live in an area where crimes are prevalent. Everyone wants to feel safe, especially when they’re at home which is what/where most people consider to be their safe space. Aside from asking your realtor/agent about the crime rate in the neighborhood you're looking at, you can also do your own research with the help of the internet. If you know someone from the same area, you could try asking them about it, too.
Factor #3 Walkability/Walk Score
If your car broke down or you just felt like taking a good ol’ walk to pass the time and get some fresh air in your system or to give Mother Nature a break, how easy would it be for you to do that in the new neighborhood you’re eyeing to move into? Check your current neighborhood’s walk score and compare it with the new neighborhood you’re eyeing.
Factor #4 Access to Public Transport
Yes, it’s true that most people have their own means of transportation these days, whether it’s a car, a bike, a motorcycle, or something else. Still, there will be days when you need to use public transport and that’s something you might want to consider when looking for a new neighborhood to move into, especially if work/school isn’t within walkable distance.
Factor #5 Neighbors
It may seem silly but getting to know a little bit about your neighbors, in general, can help save you from buyer’s regret. You wouldn’t want to be stuck among people who make everyday living difficult, right? There are plenty of ways to find out just how pleasant or unpleasant your future neighbors-to-be are. You can ask your realtor about it, go to the local police station and ask about disturbances in the area, or check your favorite social media website and see if they have neighborhood pages where people can interact with each other.
Other factors that might be worth looking into when finding a new neighborhood include parks and playgrounds, churches, nightlife, noise levels, and access to major conveniences like shops, restaurants, and the like.