How to Choose the Right Neighborhood to Live In
Deciding where to put your custom-built home is every bit as important as choosing what goes in your home! There’s a lot to consider when it comes to putting down roots—especially if you’re building your dream home, and plan on staying put for a while. Here are some of the most important things to consider when deciding on a neighborhood!
First Thing’s First—Safety!
Whether you have children or not, safety is one of the most important things to look into before settling down. Luckily, it’s very easy these days to feel out the safety of a neighborhood without living there. Don’t expect to find a completely crime-free area—things do happen—but look up the crime statistics and see where they fall on the spectrum.
In addition to doing research online, it’s also a good idea to look at the neighborhood yourself—especially at night. Would you be comfortable walking your dog at night? Are there plenty of streetlights? Don’t be afraid to talk to your potential neighbors too! Ask them how they like the neighborhood, how safe they feel, etc.
School Districts
Whether you currently have kids or you plan on having kids in the near future, making sure your new neighborhood has a good school system is crucial. Luckily, this information is as readily available as crime statistics! Look into test scores, school programming, extracurricular activities, the Parent Teacher Association, and the sport programs available.
Daily Necessities
Think about the things you need on a regular basis—groceries, department stores, prescriptions—and make sure they’re either close enough to you, or that you’re okay driving a little to get them.
In that same vein, think about the more specific things you’ll need regularly. If you have a dog, check to see if there’s a dog park nearby. If you have kids, check to see if there are any nearby playgrounds or parks for them to play in. Are you an avid hiker? See if there are any walking trails nearby you’d be interested in using!
If you don’t work remote, what will your commute be like from this new neighborhood? What will the traffic be like to and from your job? Think about the things you do every day—or every week—and make sure you’re satisfied with the driving time!
Living in Southbend
Are you looking for a custom-built home in a safe, beautiful neighborhood? Look no further than Southbend in Vestavia. Vestavia Hills, Alabama has an A+ rating in crime, schools, and amenities. And with Taylor Burton Company, you’ll have a stunning, custom dream home for you and your family. Get in touch with us to get started!