Neighborhoods, like people, have unique personalities and characteristics. Whether you’re planning to buy a home or rent for the meantime, it’s important to determine if the neighborhood fits your lifestyle before making a move. Digging into local details such as safety, walkability, nearby schools, and demographics can save you from headaches or buyer’s remorse later.
Your real estate agent is a valuable resource about your potential neighborhood. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, especially if you’re buying remotely. Keep in mind, due to the Fair Housing Act (1968), real estate professionals cannot provide information that could indicate housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. For example, crime statistics may not be fully disclosed if it could unintentionally reference racial makeup.
You may need to research certain data yourself, but take it with a grain of salt—some sources may carry bias.
Apps and Websites to Explore Your Potential Neighborhood
Google Street View: Take a virtual walk around your potential neighborhood. Check maps and home search sites, or go straight to Google Maps and type the home address. This is especially useful if buying remotely or unable to visit in person.
Historical Society Websites: If considering a historic neighborhood, explore digitized archives and publications to learn about the area’s significant events and character.
Walk Score: Measures walkability, access to public transit, and bike-friendliness. Check walk scores if being close to shops, schools, and parks is a priority. It also includes local crime and safety information.
GreatSchools: Provides ratings and information on nearby schools. The Summary Rating evaluates test scores, academic improvement, support for diverse student groups, and equity in discipline and attendance policies.
Property Value Trends: Research recent sales and trends to understand whether home values are rising, stable, or declining. Also check how many homes are for sale or rent on the street—too many may indicate declining values.
NeighborhoodScout: Offers hyper-local data including real estate activity, demographics, crime stats, school info, and housing market forecasts.
Nextdoor: A private social network connecting you to neighbors. Join to stay updated on local happenings, recommendations, and safety alerts.
City-Data.com: Provides detailed city and neighborhood statistics including demographics, median income, housing trends, schools, crime data, employment, and local businesses.
CrimeMapping.com: Police report-tracking service showing crimes in your neighborhood. Also check CrimeReports or CityProtect for map-based, recent crime reports.
Niche.com: Provides a Livability Score based on amenities, cost of living, crime, education, employment, and housing prices. Search by address, neighborhood, or ZIP code, and filter by what matters most to you.
