Homebuyers owe it to themselves to look not just at the real estate they’re buying, but at the area as well. You’re not just buying a house, you’re also reserving a spot in a neighborhood; a place you contribute to, while sharing the benefits and drawbacks. We all look for something different in a community, whether activity, good schools, churches, parks, bike paths, proximity to restaurants and shopping malls, commute location, or just plain peace and quiet.

Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as the decisions you make about the house itself. The neighborhood will impact the way you experience and respond to your new home. It’s a personal decision, but one common to all of us. Here are 7 things to look for in a new neighborhood.

1. If you are not already familiar with the area, take some time to get the feel of the community. Drive through the neighborhood and all around it, including the surrounding areas and adjoining neighborhoods or businesses. Go through at different times of the day, and even do an evening or night trip, for a complete experience. Draw in the sights, sounds, smells, and textures.
2. Check out the amenities. What about public transportation? Drive around and see where the grocery stores, hospitals, shopping malls, restaurants and other amenities are located. If you have school going children, you may want to visit the neighborhood schools and talk to teachers and administrators, before you buy.
3. Analyze the job market in the area, because availability of adequate jobs increases your property value, over time. Look at the type of jobs being offered. If higher salaries are moving your way, this can have a large impact on your property value.
4. Don’t be shy about knocking on a few doors and talking to the neighbors. These folks are familiar with the area. They can tell you what’s great about the area, and what any potential problems might be.
5. How will your location impact your work day? Make the time to drive from the property to your work location. If you normally commute during rush hour, then take the test drive in rush hour traffic, for an accurate view.
6. Look at what will be happening around your property, over the coming years. Take time to talk with local land-use and zoning officials about proposals for the area and the projected direction of development. If the neighborhood has a solid agenda for its own planning and zoning, then this will increase the value of homes in that neighborhood. Look for large forested areas or farms nearby, as these are likely spots for future development.
7. Research what financial resources are in place. Define upcoming projects in the area’s infrastructure, such as improvements or new construction of schools, hospitals, roads, city buildings, landmarks and so forth. These are usually part of the city’s long term fiscal plans and are public knowledge. Construction may be a short-term inconvenience, but it can have a strong impact on the value of your home, over time.