Are you considering purchasing a home? Do you have questions about the neighborhood? Ask the neighbors!



I showed a property this afternoon in a neighborhood where I had not shown a lot of property --- and my buyer clients were not familiar with the neighborhood either. We had a variety of questions in regards to safety, noise levels, etc.

Just as we were about to leave the property, we saw one of the neighbor outside of his house, and we stopped to ask him a few questions. My clients were able to learn, firsthand, from the neighbor:

• the neighborhood is usually very quiet
• he doesn't remember having very many issues or problems
  
• a sheriff's deputy lives just up the street
• a single older woman lives next door
  
• most people in the immediately surrounding properties have lived there for quite a few years, and generally keep to themselves

This was wonderful information for my clients --- and beyond the questions that it answered, it provided them with a general sense of comfort and reassurance that they would likely enjoy life in the neighborhood. AND --- if they do buy this house, they already have a friend in one of their new neighbors!

So --- as a buyer, don't hesitate to stop and chat with the neighbors --- they can be one of the most valuable sources of information about what life would be like in your potentially new neighborhood!

P.S. If you're a bit bashful, let me know --- I'll be happy to start the conversation and keep it going so that we can glean some useful information!

A few other thoughts on the buying process:

• Searching For A Home Online --- Which Web Site To Use!?!
• Stalking Is NOT Acceptable, But In Real Estate . . .
• Are CMA's Just For Sellers?