If you are used to having everything that you want within a few blocks walk or a 5 minute drive, you need to plan ahead when you buy a new home. There are many ways to do this—even before you close on your new property. Although, a drive around the town is great for many things, most people don’t notice the amenities of a city or town until they absolutely need them.
Here are a few things you can do to educate yourself and be prepared:
- Ask your Real Estate Agent. If you chose your agent because he or she specializes in a certain town or neighborhood, you also found yourself an encyclopedia of local businesses and services. In addition to this, your agent may also refer you to long-time residents in the area and even some newbies who recently moved into the area for camaraderie.
- Ask your Neighbors. What a great way to introduce yourself to your neighbors. Head over and knock on the door. Once you introduce yourself, you may find that not only will you get the information that you need, but you have just made a new friend. It may also be a great time to throw a party and meet all the neighbors at the same time.
- Ask your Title Company. Since you have to pay them for a search and insurance, you may as well get something else out of them. Ask for a property profile. This document will detail comparable sales in the neighborhood and may also include area demographics and names of recent buyers.
- Go Online. There are many sites that offer information on local services along with customer reviews. You can search for this information on Google. Be specific. The more information you enter, the better your search results will be.
This is only a few of the ways you can get information. If you really want a quick fix, ask the sellers of your new property. You never know what kind of insight you’ll get on your town AND your neighbors.