How do I find out if a neighborhood is good?
Despite distinct differences in objectives, most people require some basic qualities that make a neighborhood desirable including: low crime rate, nearby shopping areas, good public facilities like community centers or parks, well-maintained homes and convenient commuter options.
When evaluating a neighborhood you should investigate local conditions. A way to begin your research about a neighborhood is to start with statistics. Log on to the Internet and you can check crime statistics, demographic and lifestyle data. Good school systems are an indicator of a healthy community and can affect your property's resale value.
Web resources will also help. Check out websites for the local government in your prospective neighborhood for information about schools, taxes and public facilities. Statistics will give you a base of information about a community and often indicate trends. But remember that statistics alone can be misleading and don't often tell the whole story.
Nobody knows a community like the people who live and work there. Your best bet is to visit the local businesses and schools. Talk to neighbors. Visit the neighborhood at different times of day and night, both weekdays and weekends. Trust your feelings and responses to the neighborhood.
Fear of the unknown is the biggest obstacle in choosing a neighborhood. In your pursuit, don't forget to check the statistics, ask questions, do your research and make first-hand observations. As long as you consider some of the major factors like the quality of schools, property values, traffic, crime rate, future construction and proximity to daily activities, you are good. With this knowledge, you can make a decision that will meet your lifestyle needs while making a sound investment for the future.
Jennifer Grayson is president of the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors