If the property value of houses in the neighborhood are falling or stagnate, a lower offer may be in order. Conversely, if home values in the area are skyrocketing, then it may be worth spending a little more. Below are some things to consider when looking at a neighborhood.

Neighborhoods have personalities - find out what each one is. Ask some of the people in the neighborhood what they think of it. Ask how they perceive crime, the schools, pollution, noise and traffic. Human input is always better than reports.

A good way to check out a neighborhood is to simply drive around it. Drive through the neighborhood at different times of the day ? on weekdays as well as weekends. Find out what people do, and what there is to do. Get a first hand look at traffic and the stores you will have close to you. See what the area's schools look like. The condition of the schools and roads will tell you a lot about the area.

Find out the crime report for the area. Start at the local police department and ask them for any statistics they can provide. Check for graffiti and vandalism.

Schools

Families with kids often pick a school district before they choose a house. Remember to also check out the schools that your kids will be attending 3-5 years from now, because most people stay in a home about 5-7 years.

Location

How long will it take you to get to work? A long commute may not save you money or time. Also, are there any parks around? How easy is it to get to the interstate? What do the other houses look like? Shopping close by? (If possible, try to leave early for work one morning and drive to the property ? then drive to your job during rush hour. You will have a real idea of what your commute times will be.)

Property Values

It's a good idea to research recent selling prices for houses in the neighborhood and how much houses have increased in value in the past 10 years. Ask how much property taxes have increased, or contact the county tax assessors office for a history of increases.

Utilities

Find out utility costs. Normally the utility companies will give you a 12 month history. Also find out if cable and internet access are available to the house.

Future Development

Look for new construction in the neighborhood. Area growth can raise property values. However, it can also raise taxes and traffic congestion. Also look for any planned commercial construction. You really don't want to move into your home and find out 3 months later that they are going to put in a landfill at the end of your street.