When it comes to finding a single-family home for sale, the location is as important as the interior of the house. As you look for a home, take some time to inspect the neighborhood. You may find positive signs that indicate you are moving to a great area, or you may see red flags that can alert you to potential problems. Here are some of the things to keep an eye out for as you shop for a new home.

Many Houses For Sale

Seeing lots of for sale signs in a neighborhood isn't always a bad thing, but it does give you a reason to do more investigation about the area. Look to see if homes are being put up for sale because they have increased in value, as this can result in homeowners looking to sell for a profit. In some cases, however, people may put their homes up for sale due to an increase in crime or a drastic drop in their property value. Your real estate agent can help you to gauge the reason why a neighborhood may have many homes on the market.

Bars on Windows And Doors

As you look through each neighborhood, keep an eye out for windows and doors that have burglar bars. While this is a good security strategy for basement windows on any home, having lots of bars on doors and windows can be a sign that the area experiences a high rate of crime. If you see a home in an area with lots of burglar bars, follow up with the local police department to find out what the root cause may be.

Parks And Green Spaces

An area with lots of parks and green spaces can indicate that it's ideal for families. Look to see where local parks are located, and consider paying them a visit to see which amenities are available. Homes with parks within walking distance can provide a space for your children to play or to host family picnics. Look for areas with not only playgrounds, but also with nature trails, bicycle paths, and other outdoor spaces you can enjoy after moving into your new home.

Street Parking

In urban areas, parking can sometimes be hard to come by. Even if a home has a driveway with a garage, it's a good idea to check out the street parking situation. Some streets may have no parking at all, while others may have parking on one side only. In some cities, you must have a permit to park in certain areas. Restrictions on parking, or limited parking space, can make it difficult for friends and family to drop by for visits or parties. Ask your real estate agent about any parking restrictions in the areas you are looking in, and remember that suburban areas may also have some parking rules and regulations.

Tell your real estate agent what you are looking for in your new neighborhood as well as in your new home. Together, you can create a list of search criteria that helps you to find the houses that best match your needs.

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