Young people start to buy as the older folks move to warmer climates. Typically, you see room additions, and improved landscaping. That might be a place of growth. Walk the neighborhood, chat with folks. When buying, watch for trends.
Growth follows major highways and train lines.
In most towns, west and northwest is where the better neighborhoods develop. There are some major exceptions, but check it out. Start on the outside. Many people live inside the houses, spend little time in their yard, and never socialize with their neighbors. In that case, the neighborhood has significantly less importance.