Ask Yourself Some Questions
Rebecca Bowers
As you continue to search for your dream home, ask yourself some questions while you cruise around town. Looking for some simple things can go towards making the right decision about your next home.
Are all the yards well landscaped? Or are they filled with weeds? Are there broken-down cars and bikes in the yard? This is a sign of sloppy homeowners and lack of community concern.
If you're looking in a city, are there vacant lots? Boarded-up stores? How long have they been that way? The neighborhood may be in a state of deterioration, which could lower the value of your home. Also, if the neighborhood is in horrible shape, it doesn't provide you and your family with safe living quarters.
Do children play in the streets? These tell-tale signs could be good or bad. It might be a safe community, or it could indicate that there are no playgrounds or parks available. Cul-de-sacs or dead-end streets are very desirable for kids, since they mean no speeding traffic.
Do you see older people sitting on porches as well as children outside? This is a sign of good balance in the population.
Are the residential neighborhoods sprinkled with too many commercial establishments? Many homeowners like having a corner grocer, a few boutiques, and some popular restaurants nearby. Of course, shopping malls or industry with large parking lots would be a different story. Decide how many commercial establishments are too much or too little for you and your family.
How close is the nearest highway? Do you hear a lot of traffic as you walk the streets? Is it safe for kids? Sound pollution is a huge factor you should consider when looking.
How's the public transportation? Can you get to the train station or bus stop by foot easily but when you want to go to sleep at night, is it far enough away to not be bothersome?
Make yourself a list of pros and cons. There isn't a perfect neighborhood, but there will be some faults you can overlook because of their positive qualities. Be thorough with your search and do not rule anything out.
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