Homeowners have mixed feelings about such associations. While they certainly help to maintain the quality of the neighborhood and its property values, and maintain its safety as well, they do require membership fees. So before you slide on those rose-colored glasses and close the deal, check out that neighborhood. Come back during the evening hours. Find out who frequents the neighborhood and when.
Some neighborhoods have multiple personalities and attract a different crowd at night.
Talk to your Realtor, then talk to prospective neighbors. Drive around, and do your own research. Then, and only then, can you make an informed decision about the best neighborhood for you. Protect Property Values Doing Your Part in Keeping Your New Neighborhood Like New Courtney Ronan is a freelance writer who contributes a weekly column profiling various communities. She also writes a weekly review of real estate related web sites.