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Since a significant part of my clientele are families and individuals relocating to Columbus OH and all over Central OH, I have many discussions with my clients about specific towns and neighborhoods. I did a previous post about shopping for homes in Central Ohio from a distance, using the online tools that are available to individuals and families that are relocating to our community.
A home buyer can look at exquisite listing photos for a year, but until he or she gets into the car and drives the neighborhood, they will never really know if that’s a place they would like to live. Shopping for homes is best done at the street level.
This is why it is important to have someone who knows the community to guide the buyer along the process (me, for the purposes of this example!).
Great communities become great communities with time and people. Great communities are not born (or built).
The feel of the neighborhood tells alot: how do the neighbors maintain their properties? Do they put down fresh mulch every year? Are the lawns meticulously mowed? Are there street lights and well-maintained sidewalks? Are there children outside playing?
Does the neighborhood have a civic or neighborhood association? What activities does the association sponsor to involve the residents of the community? A quick Google search can determine if an association exists. Also, a Realtor can research links to civic associations.
For some buyers, it is all about getting the biggest, newest house for the least amount of money, in an acceptable school district. But for other buyers, the community matters most. They will sacrifice square footage and open airy layouts for neighborhoods where you know all your neighbors, and communities where shopping and conveniences are close at hand, often referred to as “walkability”.
A buyer needs to determine what is most important before starting the process. Feel free to contact me for more information about some areas here in Central Ohio that have vibrant community life and walkability.
