Moving isn’t just about selecting the dream home for you and your family. It also requires deep consideration to find the perfect neighborhood. You’ve likely heard the phrase, “location, location, location,” and it’s absolutely true for choosing the right location for your next home. Savvy homebuyers know they can redecorate or remodel an existing home to be more of their taste, but it’s impossible to change the neighborhood around the house. So, what kinds of things should you consider when looking for a new home?
10 Considerations to find a Perfect Neighborhood for You
- Total cost. In Oregon, real estate property taxes are based on municipality or county. That means the same house in one city may have much higher or lower property taxes than in another location–sometimes nearby. It’s important to consider how much property taxes will cost and work with your realtor to find homes within your overall budget. Likewise, you may find the asking price for similar homes different from one neighborhood to another very different based on various factors such as school district, distance from the city center or college campus, or general desirability.
- School districts. For families with school-age children, school districts are generally a top consideration. Talking with parents in the area will give you a good idea of which schools will be a good fit for your children. Some districts allow “lotteries” where you may be able to request a school other than the one your property is assigned to.
- Recreation. Many people enjoy walking to local attractions such as parks, pools, recreation facilities, and fitness centers. Others don’t mind the drive but wish to have easy accessibility to hiking trails, ski slopes, or the beach. Being true to your interests and selecting a neighborhood well matched to them will increase the chances you’ll enjoy your home for the long haul.
- Family Makeup. Some neighborhoods attract families with young children, while others promote a quieter lifestyle for older individuals. Take a stroll and talk with families in prospective communities. Note whether you see neighbors outside on their front porches and lawns or if families remain more secluded away from each other.
- Commute. If family members travel each day for work or school, it’s essential to know how far the commute will be and how easy the traffic is to navigate during peak hours. Driving even a few miles may add a half hour or more to a commuter’s time behind the wheel in some cities.
- Technology. If you work from home or if your family relies on the internet for streaming, gaming, or other communications, you’ll want to consider the availability of the internet in the area. For example, you may find a larger home that fits your budget within a rural community, but the only form of connectivity may be via satellite internet providers.
- Community services. You may have more access to taxpayer-funded community services if you reside within the city limits than a family whose home is in the county. From accessibility to city police or county sheriff to free benefits at the city library, these are important elements to be aware of before buying.
- Winter conditions. Spring and summer are the most popular times to purchase a new home. Yet, it’s important to consider how the property and roads to the house will be in winter conditions. For example, how comfortable will you feel commuting to work on a winding road in icy conditions? Will the street to your home be plowed? Does the creek running through the neighborhood flood?
- Homeowner Associations (HOAs). No neighborhood consideration list is complete without taking note of possible HOAs. HOAs can regulate everything from the exterior appearance of your house to approved fence styles and parking cars in streets and driveways. Understand HOA rules and learn how to get involved.
- Greenspace. Many municipal planning departments are now reserving greenspace to increase the livability of neighborhoods. Greenspaces often include walking trails and nature preserves to help residents connect with the outdoors.
Are you looking for a home in Southern Oregon?
The best place to begin your journey is with an experienced real estate agent like Gail Schoeneberg. Gail has extensive experience and knowledge, including marketing financing and buyer and seller representation in the Southern Oregon market. She will help you determine if buying a home is the right choice for you. And, of course, once you decide what you’re looking for, Gail will be at your side until you find the perfect new home for your family.
Contact Gail Schoeneberg today at 541-840-1909. Your new home awaits.
