Looking For A New Home? Four Ways To Identify Bad Neighbors
Posted on: 8 June 2017
If you're in the market for a new home, it's important to remember that you're not just buying a house. You're also buying everything that goes with it, including the neighbors. The last thing you want is to move into your new home, only to discover that people next door could be spotlighted on an episode of "world's worst neighbors." Don't get stuck with the neighbors from hell. Use the information provided here to help you avoid buying a home that comes with un-neighborly neighbors.
Look at the Property Lines
Your new home will be where you spend most of your time. You want to make sure that the neighbors won't make wish you could be anywhere but home. To identify potential problems, take the time to look at the neighboring property lines. If the neighbors have garbage lined up along the property lines, or some of their belongings are hanging over the fence, it might be an indication that they don't respect personal space. It's also a sign that you'll be dealing with the garbage once you move in.
Ask the Sellers to Introduce You
Sellers aren't always willing to disclose information regarding problem neighbors. If you suspect that there's a problem with the neighbors, ask the sellers to introduce you. If they're eager to have you make their acquaintance, there shouldn't be a problem. However, if the sellers are apprehensive about an introduction, or outright refuse the request, you might want to dig a bit deeper before you make an offer on the house.
Tour the Neighborhood
If you've decided on a house, but you still want to check out the neighbors, make sure you spend some time touring the neighborhood. Bad neighbors don't always show their true colors during normal daylight hours.
Weekends
Before you choose a home to buy, take a weekend drive through the neighborhood. This will give you the opportunity to see the types of activities your neighbors will be enjoying when people are more likely to be home.
Late Nights
If you're concerned about overnight activities in the neighborhood, take a tour late at night. This will help you find out if the neighbors have late-night parties or blare their music after midnight.
Stop by the Police Station
If you're getting mixed signals about the neighbors, stop by the local police station. While the police department may not divulge specific information about the neighbors, they will be able to give you information about recent complaints that have occurred within the neighborhood.
Now that you're in the market for a new home, don't get stuck living next door to bad neighbors. Use the tips provided here to identify potential problems.
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