10 Signs of a Safe Neighbourhood
10 Signs of a Safe Neighbourhood
Your home should be your sanctuary – somewhere you can arrive after a long day, and relax, feeling safe and secure. Ideally, it should be a place where you can allow your children to play outside, without constant supervision or feeling on edge! When buying or renting a home for your family in a brand-new location, your unfamiliarity can put you at a severe disadvantage. How can you gauge which areas are desirable – and which ones are downright unsafe?
Before taking the plunge and moving to a new town or state, it’s important to do your homework to prevent making a costly mistake. Here are some tips to assist you in choosing a safe neighbourhood where you and your family can thrive. 10 signs of a safe neighbourhood.
1. Crime statistics
Research local crime statistics and compare these to other areas that you may be considering.
2. Tale signs
Look for tell-tale signs such as abandoned houses, vandalism, or a heightened police presence.
3. Enquire about premiums
Contact your insurer and enquire about premiums in the area; higher premiums may indicate a troubled neighbourhood.
4. Positives and negatives of the location
If possible, speak with neighbours or friends and family that live in the area, for their honest opinions regarding the positives and negatives of the location.
5. Drive through the area
Go for a drive around the neighbourhood in the evening. This will give you a sense of what happens after dark – is there noise and loud music blaring, or does it feel peaceful and calm?
6. Drive through the area at different times of the day
It’s also a good idea to drive through the area at different times on different days, including the weekends, to get a better feel for the area.
7. Community events
Does the neighbourhood host community events or have sporting and other clubs? Events such as these bring the community together and help build a neighbourly feel and a sense of belonging. And is there a Neighbourhood Watch group?
8. Find where the nearest hospital, ambulance, police, etc
Find out where the nearest hospital, ambulance, police, and fire stations are located. It will give you peace of mind if you know how quickly help can be at hand for any emergency that may arise!
9. Outdoors activities
Are there kids playing outside and members of the community enjoying the outdoors?
10. Amenities
Are there any grocery stores and shops? And are these businesses busy and thriving?
By taking the time to complete your due diligence, you will be much more likely to choose not just your dream home – but also your dream suburb!
