A "dream home" doesn't just pop out of the residential landscape as you drive through neighborhoods, daydreaming about your life. Instead, it takes thought and planning to find a home that you'll truly love. 

Maybe the home with the best interior layout is in the worst neighborhood. The home in the best neighborhood is uglier than you would ever tolerate. Further, maybe the perfect home in the best neighborhood is three hours away from your workplace. 

Each factor works together to create the "dream house". One important piece is finding the right neighborhood. We're going to give you a few pointers on things to think about when it comes to location. 

Let's get started. 

1. Is It Safe?

Take a look at the crime statistics for the neighborhood the house is in. How do those statistics compare to your current neighborhood, and are you comfortable with them? 

Every area is bound to have some petty crime here and there. That said, some neighborhoods are home to unusually high numbers of break-ins, violent crimes, theft, and more. 

Make sure it's a place you'd feel safe. 

2. Is It Close?

How far from your daily life does the neighborhood exist? What's the proximity to your workplace, friends' houses, doctor's office, and schools? 

Distance is a sacrifice we often make in exchange for comfort and quality. That said, you can only live so far away before you're separated from your old life. 

3. What's The Property Value Trend?

It's wise to think about how your property value might change in the coming years. While your dream home should be enjoyable to live in, it's also a vessel for you to build wealth. 

A look at the trends of property value in the neighborhood is a good place to start. It's also worth looking at the general expansion and growth of the surrounding area. What does the future hold?

4. Do You See Yourself Here?

It's important to step back and think about what you might want in ten years. If you're still in the house, will you be happy with the surrounding area? 

For example, spending more on a home to be close to hip bars and restaurants in your 20s is one thing, but will it be worth it when you've got kids? Would you rather be somewhere without bustling nightlife at that time? 

You can always sell and move if you're not happy later, but there's no harm in planning early and making the right choice. 

5. Condition of Neighboring Houses

Who your neighbors are doesn't matter in a lot of cases, but it might matter if there's a big problem. For example, living in college housing areas might be an issue if you're a person with young children. 

If neighboring houses look run-down, they also do a little damage to the value of your own home. It's worth considering as a factor if you're split between two houses with different surrounding areas. 

6. How Are The Schools?

If you have children or plan to have children, the quality of surrounding schools is a big deal. There are a number of ways to determine how good schools in particular areas are. 

Areas with good schools tend to be good for property values as well.

7. What's Your Impression?

There's merit to going with your gut in a lot of situations. Our gut-brain is just about as smart as the one in our head. It's great to reason through the options, but if your heart is going one way, that's typically a good sign. 

Looking for a New Neighborhood?

Finding the right neighborhood can be a challenge. It's a lot easier, though, if you've got help from a professional real estate agent. We're here to help. 

Contact us to get in touch with real estate services, find homeowner advice, and explore your new house options.