Choosing a New Home Community

Choosing the right new construction community in addition to selecting a new home can sometimes feel overwhelming. Mr. Rogers sang it best when he asked so nicely, “Please won't you be my neighbor?” While nobody is lucky enough to have Mr. Rogers for a neighbor anymore, homeowners can find just the right area that suits their lifestyles. Determine what is needed, what is wanted then take the time to research these new home communities. Finding the right neighborhood in Hampton Roads is not hard, in fact, it could even be fun.

Look at your needs

Sit down with that significant other and talk turkey. Do you need a family-friendly new home? The Duggar family would probably not go for that high-rise condo with no yard and shared walls. Don't just think next year; think about the next five years or beyond. Sometimes newlyweds may not care about the family-friendly amenities that come with many new home communities because they haven't reached that stage yet but consider the possibilities and look from every angle. A serious consideration may fall under the location category. How far is this neighborhood from work? Friends? Family? Church? Shopping? A lovely enclave may seem perfect until a two-hour commute starts zapping time away from the life you wanted to build.

Write out a wish list

While this activity may not seem fruitful at first, it can actually show what features are most important. Visit some of the new home communities in your desired city, then select aspects from new construction developments that are top choices for that dream neighborhood. Popular amenities include family-friendly activities, swimming pools, tennis courts, walking trails, fishing docks, clubhouses, fitness rooms and playgrounds. The location may factor into these new home communities too. Are homes built on a golf course? Is the development within walking distance to shops? Is it located where residents rarely have to move the car and can live a greener lifestyle? Can children walk to school?

Research

Only part of this phase can be done on the couch. Yes, homebuyers can check crime statistics, landfill sites and school district information of new home developments online. But if the new construction communities make it past those checkpoints, then some on-site snooping is required. If there are bunches of For Sale signs, then they had better be for the builder. If not, there could be trouble. Is there a highway, railroad or airport that backs up to this community? Look up, is there a direct flight path from the nearest airport? Check out the potential neighbors then stop and speak with them. Ask how they like living there and get more of a general vibe of whether or not you can mesh with them. Come back after dark. Are there cars parked all over the streets?

Finding that new home in the right spot can be fairly simple once these three steps are complete. If it seems like the quest is getting out of hand, just take a breather and remember how fortunate you are. Buying a new construction home is such a wonderful beginning so try enjoying this part of the experience too. Whether it's family-friendly or single living, you can find the right place. Soon you might just be humming along, “It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood.”