The first quality to look for in a neighborhood is SAFETY. Make sure you are moving into a safe place where your family can thrive in peace. You also do not want to be afraid to take a walk or exercise by yourself. In addition to safety, here are some qualities to look for in a neighborhood.

PROXIMITY- how close is it to school, work, the grocery store, the pharmacy, the hospital? Think of all the places you will need to go to regularly. You probably will not want to live somewhere that the nearest grocery store is an hour away

HEALTH- Does the neighborhood have parks and open space for your family to exercise in? Is there a gym or at least a walking path nearby? Also, is the neighborhood known for drugs/alcohol? You will want to live in a neighborhood where your family can be happy AND healthy.

EDUCATION- If you have children, you will need to live in a neighborhood where there are good schools nearby.

RELIGION- If you want to go to a place of worship regularly, or wish for your children to attend religious schooling, make sure there is a place for your to practice your religion relatively close to your neighborhood

PEOPLE LIKE YOU If you have small children, it would be great to live in a neighborhood with other growing families so your children will have built in friends. If you are a senior, it would be great to live near other seniors to spend time with. Also, if you are very liberal, you may have problems living in a neighborhood that is very conservative. Think about who your neighbors are.

WEATHER- Is the neighborhood in an evacuation zone for storms? Does the street flood easily? You will need to know how the weather affects the neighborhood so you can be prepared, or move elsewhere.

QUALITY OF LIFE- Are the people in the neighborhood happy? Do you see signs of a content life (ex a playset in the front yard, holiday decorations, welcome floormats, etc)? Even if you are timid, it wouldn't hurt to talk to your potential new neighbors and introduce yourself. They will be your greatest clue as to what kind of neighborhood you are considering living in.

Learn more about this author, H.G. Hess.
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