Research Is the Key

Places to Look
Things to learn.

Homebuyers must research neighborhoods carefully before they buy. There is a reason why that favorite old saying of real estate - location, location, location - is more than just a clich�. Wherever you buy a home, the neighborhood greatly affects your daily life, which in turn affects your property value and happiness.

Once you find a great home, it's easy to let your excitement color your perceptions of the neighborhood.

But a beautiful home could turn out to be a bad investment if located in a neighborhood with poorly performing schools, too far away from grocery stores or a gas station. With a little homework, you could find out about traffic problems before you are stuck trying to get out of your new neighborhood. You may have to compromise a little on some things to make the whole work out in your favor.

Choosing the Right Home
Look around the neighborhood first.

When it comes to choosing the right home, make sure the neighborhood really fits before you sign the dotted line. Your quality of life and your home's property value depend on it. How do you really know the neighborhood is a good place to live with strong property values? What separates the good, the bad, and the ugly?

Let's get down to the nitty gritty...

And study the factors that distinguish a good neighborhood from a less desirable one.

Hitting the Books

Learn the criteria for finding a good neighborhood.

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