How to Find the Right Neighborhood for You

The neighborhood where you move can have a large impact on your lifestyle - crime rate, schools, parks other amenities, and convenience are all important.

1. List the important activities - going to the movies, gym, church, stores you shop at frequently. Just how far would you have to drive from each neighborhood you’re considering to engaging in your most frequent activities?

2. What school district - The Department of Education web site or office should be able to provide info on test scores, size of classes , what colleges are available, and special enrichment programs. If you have school-age children, then pay a visit to schools in the areas where you are considering buying a home. A popular school district can be good for resale value - even if you don't have kids in school.

3. Check the neighborhood crime rate. Ask the police department for crime stats in the area. Look at not only the # of crimes but also what sort — house break ins, robberies — Are crimes decreasing or increasing in the area?. Are crimes taking place near an area of stores mainly, or thru out the neighborhood?
4. Is neighborhood is stable economically ? Check with your local city chamber of commerce to determine if income and property values in the neighborhood are stable, dropping or rising. . What is the % of houses to apartments? Apartments don’t necessarily lower values, but they do mean a less stable population. Are there vacant businesses or houses that have been on the market for months?

5. Ask a REALTOR or check with the local REALTOR association to obtain info about price appreciation trends in the neighborhood. While prior performance is no guarantee of results in the future, this info might give you a feel of how good an investment your house will be. A REALTOR or the government planning agency might also be give you info regarding planned developments or other changes in the area — such as new school or highways — that could affect future values.

6. Check for yourself. You can narrow your search to 2 or 3 neighborhoods. You can go there, then walk around. Are homes neat and well kept? Are streets too busy? Pick a nice day then chat with people working or playing outside. Are they friendly? Do they have children to play with your children? Go there at different hours of the day.
7. Check out our Town's section for community information on the different towns on the Monterey Peninsula!