Location, Location, Location: The Art of Finding the Perfect Neighbourhood to Buy In
ShareLet's say you're at home, scrolling through hundreds of good choices of houses for sale in Brentwood, for example, but you're worried about relocating because you don't know if it's a good place to live. So, what can you do to determine whether it's a 'good' neighbourhood? What constitutes an ideal neighbourhood differs greatly from person to person, making the task of choosing the right one highly subjective. This article delves into the most important things to think about and keep an eye out for when moving to a new neighbourhood.
Assessing Your Priorities
We'd like to start by saying that determining what makes a neighbourhood 'good' or 'bad' is not a universal standard. Individual needs, preferences, and priorities shape this perception. A family may prioritise proximity to good schools and the amount of green space, whereas a young professional may be drawn to a vibrant nightlife and easy access to public transport. So, before deciding whether a neighbourhood is 'good,' make sure you've assessed your priorities and outlined what makes a neighbourhood 'good' to you, which will vary from person to person.
Check Local House Prices
The cost of housing is an important consideration when deciding on a neighbourhood. Local house prices provide information about an area's affordability and value. Investigate recent sales and price trends in real estate to gain a realistic understanding of what you can afford and what recent development has occurred in the neighbourhood. If the neighbourhood is undergoing redevelopment, it may be a good idea to consider what growth in the neighbourhood will mean for your property price if you decide to purchase in that area.
Check Crime Statistics
Safety is always a paramount concern when choosing a neighbourhood. While no place is completely free of crime, understanding a neighbourhood’s crime statistics is critical. Monthly crime reports and comparisons with neighbouring areas are available on platforms such as police.uk. Keep in mind, however, that feeling safe is about more than just statistics. To learn about the safety of a potential neighbourhood, consult online resources, and local police departments, and participate in community forums.
Check Local Amenities
Amenities play a pivotal role in how easy it will be to live in that neighbourhood. A 'good' neighbourhood may be one with easy access to shops, transport links and daily necessities, all of which will make your life much easier. Families looking to relocate to a new neighbourhood should research school districts and educational opportunities, as the quality of local schools can affect property values and the overall desirability of the area.
Go See for Yourself
While online research of crime statistics and house prices is useful, the best way to get a sense of a neighbourhood is to simply visit it. Spend a weekend walking the streets, visiting local shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. Walk around your potential new neighbourhood at various times of the day and week to get a true sense of the area. Remember that towns and cities are constantly changing, so having a current and real-life impression of what a neighbourhood feels like is essential.
If you want to find out more about how to choose the perfect neighbourhood or have any other queries about buying or selling a home talk to a member of our team at Balgores today. We would be more than happy to help.