So Many Neighborhoods, But Which One to Choose?
Posted by Kevin Hughes on Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 at 11:46am.
Purchasing a home can be stressful, but by doing some careful research ahead of time, home shoppers can alleviate some of that stress. The first step in the home-buying process is to examine potential neighborhoods.Here are 4 tips to consider when picking a neighborhood to call home.
1. Education
For those with children, education of their young ones is often their primary concern. Many public schools have clear boundaries for their districts, and those looking to move to a higher-rated district will want to know exactly where these lines are drawn. Doing a Google search on “how to find the best school districts” will offer several helpful websites which give comparison ratings of schools nationwide.
For those with children, education of their young ones is often their primary concern. Many public schools have clear boundaries for their districts, and those looking to move to a higher-rated district will want to know exactly where these lines are drawn. Doing a Google search on “how to find the best school districts” will offer several helpful websites which give comparison ratings of schools nationwide.
2. Market Values and the Local Economy
Take a drive around the potential neighborhood. Foreclosures in the area can negatively impact home values, as can abandoned lots and homes that appear neglected. An ideal neighborhood should reflect the care and attention of its homeowners. In general, home values around the country are experiencing depreciation, but that is not always the case. An Idaho real estate agent can provide statistics on appreciation rates.
Take a drive around the potential neighborhood. Foreclosures in the area can negatively impact home values, as can abandoned lots and homes that appear neglected. An ideal neighborhood should reflect the care and attention of its homeowners. In general, home values around the country are experiencing depreciation, but that is not always the case. An Idaho real estate agent can provide statistics on appreciation rates.
In this economy, almost everyone is worried about the job market. Doing research into local industries and checking Idaho property values can help the potential homeowner decide where to make an investment. Industries and shops moving into an area is a good sign of a more-stable economy, and can lead to higher home values. It’s also a good idea to check out the local unemployment rates on the Department of Labor’s website (labor.idaho.gov)
3. Crime Rates
Everyone wants to feel safe and secure in their home, so be sure to check local crime rates before deciding on a neighborhood. The local police department has reports on crimes (both petty and violent) in the area. They also should have information on volunteer programs like Neighborhood Watch that helps keep our communities safe. And a search on www.crimereports.com will show reported crimes and registered sex offenders as well.
Everyone wants to feel safe and secure in their home, so be sure to check local crime rates before deciding on a neighborhood. The local police department has reports on crimes (both petty and violent) in the area. They also should have information on volunteer programs like Neighborhood Watch that helps keep our communities safe. And a search on www.crimereports.com will show reported crimes and registered sex offenders as well.
4. Location, Location, Location
Figuring out what to have close by and what is worth traveling for is also important. Those that value privacy over convenience won’t mind driving an hour for groceries, whereas those who like to be in the center of the activity might find such isolation undesirable. For a young couple just starting out, being close to a good school district might not be a top priority, but if they are planning on having children, they may want to consider the proximity of good schools, parks, playgrounds, and other recreational activities. Good planning and some careful research will help make the home selection process enjoyable.
Figuring out what to have close by and what is worth traveling for is also important. Those that value privacy over convenience won’t mind driving an hour for groceries, whereas those who like to be in the center of the activity might find such isolation undesirable. For a young couple just starting out, being close to a good school district might not be a top priority, but if they are planning on having children, they may want to consider the proximity of good schools, parks, playgrounds, and other recreational activities. Good planning and some careful research will help make the home selection process enjoyable.Hughes Real Estate Group- Silvercreek Realty
(208) 571-7145
www.BuyIdahoRealEstate.com
www.StartPackingIdaho.com
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