Neighborhood Checklist

The neighborhood you select to buy your next home can make a big impact on your lifestyle and your investment.

1. Start your checklist by making a list of your favorite activities and what your family does the most. Do you go to the movies often, work out at a local gym or take the family to church? How far are you willing to travel? These are decisions that will affect your lifestyle daily.

2. If you have children, then the local school system is important. Find out all that you can about the local school system. Check here for the Collier County Schools information. They provide information on enrollment, test scores, school calenders, etc. You should really, if possible, pay a visit to the school in the area where your children will be attending. As far as an investment, a home in a good school district will be easier to sell when you're ready to move.

3. Your Realtor® is limited in what information they are legally permitted to disseminate, but if you are concerned about safety, then be sure to ask the local police department for their latest fact sheet on crimes in the area. Is crime rising or falling? Are they minor crimes or more serious crimes that may affect your decision. You should feel comfortable in your home purchase and the area in which you can enjoy a peaceful lifestyle.

4. Ask your Realtor® what the turnover is in a particular community. It's normal to have approximately 10% of any neighborhood on the active sales market at any one time. Depending on the market trends, if there are an overwelming number of homes on the market there may be a hidden reason that you need to investigate further.

5. Appreciation. Again, check with your Realtor® for the market trends in the area. What homes have sold, for how much and how long where they on the market before getting a contrac?

6. Also check with the local county planning office to research any drastic changes that may be taking place in the near future such as new road construction or a new school site. These type developments may affect property values either positively or negatively.

7. Stop, get out of the car and take a look around. Talk to the neighbors if possible and just observe what you see. Our the lawns well kept? Homes well maintained? Drive through the neighborhood during the day and again at night. Are the streets well lite? Is there a park nearby? Once you find a comfort level, your decision will be much easier.