How to do a Neighborhood Review
You should always do some of your own research to make sure you are comfortable with your home selection. I will counsel you as much as I can while you look at houses and as you make your select, but only you can know when the home is right for you!
Here are some tools for doing a thorough neighborhood review - pick the ones you want to use based upon your lifestyle priorities!
In-person Techniques
Noise Issues. Drive and/or walk through the neighborhood at various times of the day, especially during commute or traffic times and again in the early evening when people are most likely to be outside.
Neighborhood Issues. While walking through the neighborhood talk to any neighbors who are outside. If there is a homeowner association talk to one of the board members and ask to see the minutes from the last couple of meetings. Ask people what they enjoy about the neighborhood and what they don’t. Find out what the hot issues are, if the neighborhoods have regular gatherings (block parties, association meetings, etc…) if the children go to the public or private schools. (Whatever might be of interest to you.)
Lifestyle Issues. Think about your lifestyle and what is important to your well being. Drive your commute during commute times, check out the nearby shopping, medical facilities, recreational, leisure and school options that as appropriate to your interests and needs.
Online Resources
- Community Research. If you are buying in Woodinville - go to my Woodinville Community page. If you are looking elsewhere - type in the city and “website” and then “chamber” and you will find out lots of information.
- Community Statistics & Guides
US Census Bureau, Community Fact Sheet
State Visitor Guides - School District Websites & School Rating Websites
National Review (School Matters, A Service of STandard & Poors)
Washington State Report Card
The Seattle Times School Guide - Natural Hazzard & Severe Weather Information
FEMA Flood Zone Maps & Information
USGS Earthquake Information
USGS Volcano Information - Sex Offender Websites
National Sex Offenders Site
King County Site
Snohomish County Site - Clandestine Behavior Websites
National Clandestine Laboratory Registry
King County Methlab Cleanup locaitons - Septic As Built Plans
King County
Snohomish County -
Environmental Protection Agency Reviews
Envirofacts: Pollution, hazardous waste sites, and other regulatory information.