Scott

Searching for a property in Memphis, TN to purchase or rent is a process that requires several steps. First and foremost, you need to have a checklist of must haves, including a neighborhood radius. This gives you a starting point. You also need to have a clear budget in mind, including the cost of any renovations that may be needed.

View Property Values in Multiple Communities

Research a few communities in a desired area. Property values range and this is important for resale value. However, the lower the value, the lower the property taxes are going to be if that is a factor for you. Compare the prices to rule out some neighborhoods.

Communities vary in age, meaning that some homes have not been updated. If you are not willing to perform renovations, seek out newer communities. Older homes often have the charm and character that families find comforting but do often require some upgrades to take place.

View Crime Rates

A safe place to live is important. Local police departments can provide crime rates or reports based upon a specific radius. This may take several days to complete, and there may be a fee required to obtain this material. It is important to understand what types of crime happen in a potential neighborhood to call home.

Visit Several Neighborhoods

It is ideal to visit a few choice neighborhoods before looking at any homes. Visit these neighborhoods at varying times of the day on several different days of the week. This will show you what kind of activity to expect and will also determine if the area is safe and quiet. These are important factors for many homeowners and renters.

Seek out an Excellent School District

Education is important to families that have children. View the average test scores for several districts. If it is a public school option, seek out the district that has the highest student success rate with the smallest class sizes.

If you prefer private schools, you’ll need to review their curriculum as well as the tuition, dress code requirements, tour the facility and speak with some parents that have children attending the school. These are important factors because you want your children to get the best education possible.

Look for Homes within your Budget that Suit your Needs

It is absolutely important to live within your means. A desired neighborhood may be completely out of your price range. The worst thing to get yourself into is a mortgage that doesn’t really fit your budget. Being house poor leads to other financial difficulties.

As you can see, the process of finding the right property is quite extensive. Exhausting, as some would call it. In the end, when you find the property that you know is home, all of the stress and running around is worth it. You’ll be able to make the home your own, redecorate, complete upgrades or keep it just the way it is if you prefer. Take your time and find the home that you know in your heart is the absolute right location to call home.