The Qualities Of A Good Neighborhood To Live In: What To Look For

When looking for a new house to buy or rent, it is worth noting that you are not only moving into a new home, but you are also becoming a part of a community and neighborhood. Therefore, researching areas to see which ones fit your current lifestyle best is essential to finding a new home that you will be happy in. 

Typically, people choose neighborhoods based on their specific needs. For example, families with children are more likely to move into larger houses close to good schools and lots of park space, while young professionals may opt for apartments near their workplace and close to shops and restaurants. 

There are, however, some well-recognized characteristics and qualities that make neighborhoods better to live in.  

Green Landscaping and Plenty of Trees

Neighborhoods with lots of greenery, lush landscaping, and trees experience many benefits as a result. The real estate specialists at Condo Black Book explain that greener districts often have more character and higher property values. In addition, large trees and bushes can provide much-needed shade, which can help stop the area from becoming an unpleasant heat trap in summer. 

Nearby Amenities 

Convenient access to essential services and shops is a necessary consideration for many people choosing a new neighborhood. Ideally, ATMs, banks, gas stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants should be 5-10 minutes from your home. 

Low Crime Rates and Safety 

Safety and security are a big concern for everyone, and neighborhoods with less crime will always be more desirable, which is why gated communities cost more to live in.  

You can, however, find safe neighborhoods outside gated communities with low rates of property theft and violent crime where it is safe for kids to play outside and adults to walk alone at night. The best way to find out more about an area's crime rates and problems is to ask current residents and do some research online. You may also want to check if there is a neighborhood watch group in the area to help with monitoring and reporting crime. 

Easy Access to Healthcare

Better neighborhoods are usually closer to healthcare facilities such as dentist clinics, that can offer reliable and affordable tooth implant doctor's offices, hospitals, and pharmacies, allowing for convenient access to outpatient care and faster emergency service responses.

Excellent Public Services

For districts and neighborhoods to be healthy, resilient, and sustainable, several essential public facilities and services are provided and maintained. These include courts, electricity, education, emergency services, environmental protection, healthcare, public transportation, sanitation, waste management, and water. Generally, better-managed districts with extensive general provisions offer a better quality of life for residents. 

Nice Aesthetics

The aesthetics of a neighborhood can set the vibe of an area, make it look attractive, and feel welcoming. The look and feel of a community are determined by its architecture, cleanliness, design, gardens, landscaping, lighting, street layout, trees, and unique signage. An area should make its residents feel calm, comfortable, and proud of where they live. 

It Should Fit Your Needs and Lifestyle

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a new neighborhood is your needs and current lifestyle. Even if you find a beautiful area you like, it could end up costing you more if you have to travel far to work or your favorite places. 

Before you start looking at specific houses, it is a good idea to write a wish list of what you would like in your new neighborhood, whether it be good public transit links, a community of families, local shops, parks, schools, or restaurants.

Easy Transit

Whether you prefer urban or suburban areas, the preferred modes of transport and available public transport will vary greatly. In urban districts, the better neighborhoods will have a range of public transportation such as buses, commuter trains, ferries, light rail, and trams running on regular schedules to almost every other neighborhood in the metropolitan area. 

In suburban and rural neighborhoods, residents are far more likely to get around by car. However, many suburbs in US cities are still within driving distance via highways to city centers and travel hubs. 

Close to Nature

Regularly getting out into nature can help to reduce stress and improve health, so it makes sense that neighborhoods close to or surrounded by parks are a popular choice for many people. In addition, being less than a few hour's drive away from the mountains or beach allows for more leisurely weekend getaways. 

When moving house, choosing the right neighborhood that suits your lifestyle and needs can be challenging. However, looking out for a sound community's typical signs can help you avoid moving into an area you won't be keen on.

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