Professional Tips To Help You Find The Best Neighborhood For You!
Considerations to make about the neighborhoods you will want to look at homes in.
Builder Reputation – Research the original builders and quality of construction, warranties, and any known issues.
Resale Value History – Review recent sales and price appreciation within the neighborhood.
Future Development – Investigate city or county plans for new roads, retail, or subdivisions that could affect traffic and noise.
Traffic & Commute – Test drive your commute during peak hours; assess subdivision entry/exit points.
Utilities & Services – Confirm water source (city, well, or MUD), internet availability, garbage collection, and other essential services.
Lighting & Safety – Assess street lighting, sidewalks, and security measures in the community.
Parking & Street Width – Narrow streets with frequent street parking can affect safety and convenience, especially if you have children that would be outside on their bikes, scooters, and all the rest of the super fun big-kid toys.
Access to Shopping & Services – Proximity to grocery stores, healthcare, and retail hubs adds daily convenience.
Rental & Short-Term Rental Policies – Some subdivisions allow rentals or STRs (Airbnb/VRBO), which may or may not align with your preferences.
School District – Verify school assignments and performance ratings, even if you don’t have children, since schools directly impact property values.
HOA Rules & Fees – Review restrictions, monthly or annual dues, and enforcement history to ensure they align with your lifestyle.
Property Taxes & MUD/PID – Check the tax rate and whether the subdivision is in a Municipal Utility District (MUD) or Public Improvement District (PID), which can significantly affect annual costs.
Amenities – Pools, parks, trails, and clubhouses can add value and lifestyle benefits, but also may increase HOA fees.
Lot Sizes & Privacy – Compare lot dimensions, greenbelt access, and spacing between homes.
Septic vs. Sewer – Many Hill Country subdivisions have septic systems—understand maintenance requirements and costs.
Noise Levels – Visit at different times of day to evaluate road noise, trains, nearby venues, or nightlife. Does the subdivision allow animals like chickens and roosters?
Community Culture – Determine if the neighborhood is family-friendly, retirement-focused, or a mix.
Architectural Consistency – Check if homes are cohesive in style and upkeep, which helps maintain values.
Age of the Subdivision – Newer neighborhoods may have active construction; older ones may have more mature trees but aging infrastructure.
Floodplains & Environmental Factors – Review FEMA maps, drainage, and wildfire risks.