Knowing what area of town you hope to live in plays a big part in your homebuying decision. While it is important to find a house that suits your family, it is equally important to choose a neighborhood that will fit your needs and lifestyle.
Consider the following factors when searching for the right neighborhood:
Look & Feel – Do you prefer a historic neighborhood with large mature trees, or a developing neighborhood full of new construction? What kind of architecture appeals to you?
Lifestyle – Look at your daily habits and interests to make sure that the neighborhood will accommodate them. Some neighborhoods cater to those who love the outdoors and offer amenities like swimming pools, tennis clubs, golf courses, and walking trails. Another important factor may be the proximity to stores and dining.
Children – For homebuyers with children, great schools are a crucial factor in choosing a neighborhood. To see how schools in a particular area rank, use a tool like School Digger. Additionally, having parks and child-friendly activities nearby is key. Drive around the neighborhood at various times to determine if there are children playing outside, which will help you know if the community is ‘family friendly.’
Commute – Check your commute time from the neighborhood during rush hour or use an app like Waze to calculate the time it will take you to drive to work. If you won’t be driving, check the public transportation systems and schedules in your area.
Culture – Are you looking to become involved in a homeowners association and participate in activities with neighbors? Some neighborhoods have a large sense of community while others are more private, so be sure to investigate if the neighborhood will fit in with your expectations.
Once you have found a neighborhood that will be a good fit for you and your family, make sure that you do your research on the crime statistics , property taxes, and plans for future development in the area so there are no surprises. It is also an excellent idea to visit the neighborhood at different times of the day to observe traffic, noise, and surroundings.
When you are ready to purchase a home, the team at Dream Home Lending would love to meet with you to go over your homebuying options and pre-approve you for your loan. Call us today to set up an appointment!
