4 Tips: Evaluating Neighborhoods #homebuying #realestate #investment #family

Choosing a home is tough, and if you're choosing a new neighborhood, it can be even tougher.  Here are 4 of my favorite tips to see if an area is right for you:

1.  CHECK OUT THE BASIC STATS.  Crime data, both the volume of crime and the types of crime, and school performance data are important when thinking about what's best for your family.

2.  SEE WHAT THE NEIGHBORS ARE DOING.  Get a sense of local activities, and see if it looks like a place with frequent block-parties or if people may keep more to themselves.

3.  LEARN THE TRAFFIC PATTERNS.  Find out if there are frequent jams, or if a nearby farmers' market limits road access during weekends.

4.  LOOK FOR LOCAL AMENITIES.  Make sure you explore the area to find things that matter to you, like local coffee shops or parks.

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