When you are house hunting, it’s important to remember that you’re not only buying a home, but also a neighborhood. Think about it … you can update and renovate your home, but you cannot change its location, the community, or your neighbors.
Here are some things to keep in mind when researching your potential neighborhood:
Safety
A good neighborhood with a low crime rate is a good fit for your family, and will bode well with future property values. Start with local law enforcement crime statistics, and then go further online to run reports on your address on CrimeReports or the National Sex Offender Registry. It may also be a good idea to drive through the neighborhood at different times of the day to check on the degrees of traffic.
School District
Buying a home in a neighborhood that is in a good school district is a smart investment. Homes that come with good schools deeply affect the resale value, so go online to look up the local school district’s report cards, any possible awards, and info on nearby schools’ demographics, test scores, and graduation rates. Maybe even check out social media for parent reviews.
Neighbor Vibes
Pay attention to whether or not neighbors tend to their outdoor facades and curb appeal, such as lawncare, welcoming flower beds, or manicured trees. These are all good signs! Neighbors that have a sense of pride in their property goes a long way for an overall sense of community. I know there’s a debate on the good, bad, and ugly of HOAs, but a neighborhood that has one with guidelines is more likely to have a consistent, upkept look.
Neighborhood & Nearby Amenities
What is the kind of lifestyle you are looking to move into? This look is different for families versus empty nesters or retirees. Be sure to check out any in-neighborhood amenities that are included in your HOA dues, like a pool, clubhouse, gym, or tennis/pickle ball courts. Also pay attention to nearby amenities, such as parks and playgrounds, libraries, biking or walking trails, open green spaces, and a close proximity to conveniences, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, shopping, dining, and local attractions.
Also, look up the neighborhood’s Facebook page or posts on Nextdoor to see if they host special neighborhood events, moms’ groups, and more.
Remember, finding a dream home is ideal, but landing on a dream neighborhood is just as important!
It’s also essential to find the right agent! Paige Bird has been a real estate agent in Myrtle Beach since 2004, and has been named the #1 RE/MAX Agent in South Carolina for 8 consecutive years. In 2022, she closed on 75 properties for a total 26,472,347 in sales volume and an average list to sales price of 99.10%.
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