Crime Find out how many and what kind of crimes occur. Start at the local police department, which may provide statistics. Check alleys and public buildings for graffiti. Unwelcome artwork could mean gang activity. Schools Families with young children often pick a school district before they choose a house.
Local schools report how much is spent per child.
Ask for test scores, too. Transportation and Amenities Time the commute. It's better to know how long, rather than how far, it is to work. Nearby stores can be lifesavers when you run out of milk at dinnertime. Property Values Research recent selling prices for houses in the neighborhood and how much houses have increased in value in the past 10 years.