What should I look for in a neighborhood?

Some neighborhoods speak loud and clear at first glance; the quality of life is apparent in its streets, parks, buildings, homes and yards, and the folks you see. You get a feel for it (either for or against) just by looking.

A real estate agent can, of course, fill you in on community details not so obvious at first glance:

• Where schools, supermarkets, libraries, hospitals, places of worship, fire and police stations are located.
• What zoning regulations apply.
• What community services are available.
• What construction plans are in the offing.
• What shifts in transportation facilities are occurring.
• Whether home values have appreciated or depreciated.
• What tax rates prevail

For a more intimate impression, you should walk around a neighborhood the looks attractive to you. Visit the schools your children will attend to confirm district boundaries and comparisons with other schools. Talk with people at bus stops (ask about commuting schedules and costs), in shops (chat about where the best stores are), in parks (get folks talking about recreational programs), in front yards (ask what they like and dislike about the neighborhood). You might take instant photos as you tour different locales. They'll help you later when you want to keep different streets and homes separate in you mind. Also take notes to late compare, especially addresses and prices.

Inspecting a neighborhood is as necessary as inspecting the home you may buy. An old real estate maxim says, "The best time to think about selling your home is when you're buying it." That's because location will be a prime factor influencing future buyers when it comes time to sell your home.

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