Location, location, location: How to choose the right neighborhood when buying a home

Finding the right home is important, but the neighborhood where it's located equally if not more so. A beautiful home becomes less desirable when the neighborhood is not right for you.

So do lots of research before placing an offer. Use a local realtor to help you narrow in on the perfect area or conduct own independent research online or via third-party apps to learn about the location where you're thinking of buying a home.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing your next neighborhood.

Crime and Safety

Personal safety is often at the top of the list for homebuyers looking for a new neighborhood. Most people want to live in an area with a strong sense of community and where they feel comfortable and secure.

It’s important to check local crime statistics. Most law-enforcement agencies provide reports that indicate local crime rates. Also be sure to check the National Sex Offender Registry to discovery whether sex offenders live nearby.

You might also want to consider whethter the neighborhood has any active crime prevention organizations such as neighborhood watch or crime stoppers. Also be sure to consider what areas have good street lighting. Make note if neighbors commonly have installed security cameras and fences, which can give an indication regarding the local perception surrounding safety and security.   

School Districts

If you have children or are planning to grow your family check Great Schools for the local schools' test scores, teacher ratings, and reviews. Other signs of a good school district are parent organization involvement as well as sports programs. Schools that offer additional extracurricular activities are a bonus.

Even if you don't plan to have children, school districts have a big impact on the local community. Areas with better school districts will likely have higher property taxes, which can impact your overall housing expenses.

Local Amenities

Proximity to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, parks, gyms, schools, daycares, mechanics, and pharmacies are all amentities that are nice to have close by. Check out online reviews and use digital apps to compare businesses that interest you. Make sure the mix of amenities matches your lifestyle—i.e., if you love eating out every night but are tempted by a home located 20 minutes out of town on a dirt road, you might want to reconsider.

Lifestyle

Similarly, if you enjoy a robust nightlife you might want to consider a neighborhood with a bustling downtown area or with access to a nice blend of shops, bars, and clubs.

If being outdoorsy is more your preference, finding a more rural neighborhood, or one that maintains many parks, trails, and walking paths might be a more ideal fit. Whatever your preference, make sure the neighborhood you choose resonates with the way you enjoy spending your time.

Commute to Work

Many homebuyers overlook their morning and evening commute when researching the right neighborhood to live in. If you don't work remotely, you don’t want to spend all day commuting to and from work.

Check commute times during rush hour, and research the major roadways providing access in and out of the neighborhood. Also check out public transit or park-and-ride services.

Whether you prefer to live in a quiet suburban area or a bustling urban atmosphere, it's important to choose a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle. With the help of a local realtor plus your own research, make sure to find a neighborhood that offers a good balance of features you care about most.