How do I know if a neighborhood is right for me? The truth is not all neighborhoods are nice ... nor are all neighbors nice.
When shopping for a house or condo, your real estate agent can not mislead or steer you to or away from any specific neighborhood. As a seller your real estate agent will almost always say the obligatory “nice neighborhood” or even “established neighborhood” someplace within the narrative. As an added bonus many times the agent will even throw in “excellent schools nearby” as well!
The truth is not all neighborhoods are nice.
Some are old and run down. Some are crime-ridden (or, in a more PC manner "have a greater propensity to be the site of criminal activity!"). Some are on a property value downward spiral. And, lets aface it, not all schools are excellent.
As a buyer you must take some initiative and do some research on your own. Call local law enforcement to check the statistics for the area. Consult the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Sexual Offender web site. Visit the schools personally before deciding on a house (verify school assignment as changes happen). Consult the Brevard County Public School website or a site like schoolmatters.com.
Here are a few more tips to consider when selecting a neighborhood in which to live:
• Drive around the neighborhood after school (or during the weekend) to see what its like when folks are home.
• Get out and talk to neighbors.
• How many folks are walking their dogs, riding bikes, out with their children?
• What is the traffic like?
• How are the nearby houses maintained?
• How many houses are for sale or being foreclosed?
• What is the percentage of owner-occupied homes?
• If there is a homeowner or condo association ask around about issues, effectiveness and organization.
This is not a comprehensive list, just some suggestions for consideration as you begin your home search.
Gary L. Waters PLLC, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Rockledge, Florida serving Florida's Space Coast including the cities and communities of Melbourne, Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach and the surrounding region.
Whether your interest lies in a 55+ community such as Heritage Isle, a golf course community such as Baytree National Golf Links or water front, give me a call!
Read my blog Florida Homes for Sale, Moving to Brevard County, Florida, and Brevard County Florida Real Estate Information.
