They say home is where the heart is—but there’s more to it than that. Finding the best neighborhood for you and your family can make a world of difference. The right fit will depend on a variety of factors. Here are a few considerations:
If you have school-age children (or plan to have them) and intend to send them to public schools, then rating might enter the equation. You can find some helpful data here.
Do you value historic charm? Certain neighborhoods are known for turn-of-the century homes, while others offer a more modern aesthetic. While older homes come with more upkeep, they can be one of a kind and works of art in their own right.
If you prefer less maintenance and more energy efficiency, maybe a newer home is for you. A real estate agent will know which neighborhoods to seek out or avoid, depending on your preference.
What are your must haves? Walkability? Proximity to the trails system, neighborhood pool, local restaurants, stores, etc.? Or do you prefer being in a more quiet and remote area?
Evaluate your lifestyle and priorities. If you’re an outdoorsy type, for example, you likely want to ease of access to trails and parks.
A long commute to work or school can be a real headache. Will you be driving, biking, walking or taking public transportation to get to and from work and other activities? For most buyers, the time it takes to commute to and from work enters into the equation.
How long are you willing to spend on the road? Remember, a longer commute equates to more spent on gas and less time spent with family and friends.
Buying a home is a very personal decision, but it's also a huge investment. For many people, a home is one of the most important investments they will make. It’s important to research each neighborhood to better understand the market trends and property values.
Working with a real estate agent who is familiar with the area can help you in this regard. A lot of factors go into determining home value, so you don’t want to overlook anything unintentionally.
Some neighborhoods are sprawling and have significant space between lots, while others are tighter in their development. If you’re someone who doesn’t necessarily want to hear and see everything the neighbors do in their backyard, maybe a more rural or suburban location might serve you best.
A smart buyer looks at all the costs of home ownership. Property taxes can add up. Look into what the current tax rate is and how much it has increased in the last five years. Is there another expected increase? How much might you pay in five years? Build this amount into your moving budget.
Similarly, some neighborhoods have home owners’ associations (HOAs) that require annual or quarterly dues in turn for amenities and some upkeep. Ask your real estate agent about the specifics.
Finding the best neighborhood can be a balancing act of sorts, but we have narrowed all of this down to three simple actions: