How to tell if a neighborhood is safe

On Behalf of | May 27, 2022 | Real Estate Transactions

You’re planning a move to an area of New York, but you’re not quite familiar with the location. You’ve spotted a house and it seems right for you and your family. It’s sizable, modern and clean.

It’s all very well having a nice house, but you really need to make sure the area is suitable too. There are never any guarantees, but there are a few signs that a neighborhood is safe. Outlined below are some things to keep in mind.

A tight-knit community

You notice signs on the street saying “neighborhood watch” or something similar. Generally, this means that everyone in the community cares about their own home as well as those around them. Such communities often have regular meetings, where any concerns can be talked about and raised with local authorities. You’ve also had a quick look around the local stores and there are notice boards filled with local events that are upcoming. A tight-knit community is a good sign that you can feel safe and not isolated.

Crime statistics

Generally, crime statistics are readily available. By conducting a brief online search, it’s likely that you’ll be able to find the precise crime rates over the last few years. Even if you struggle with this, the local police station should be able to give you an indication of these numbers at the very least. If you notice a high police presence in the location, and officers seem standoffish rather than helpful, this could be a sign that the area is not for you.

The community you live in is just as important as the house you purchase. If you’re having second thoughts about a real estate transaction, or are caught up in any sort of legal dispute, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable party will help you to find a favorable solution.

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