When searching for homes for sale, one of the main aspects of safety involves the neighborhood and surrounding areas. In many cases your realtor can help provide you with information about the area and popular home security systems, but there are some basic ways to do research yourself to ensure that you feel safe in your new neighborhood.
Collect Data on Crime
This information can be obtained from local government agencies or the local police department. Look for the areas that have the highest crime rates in the different categories you’re concerned about and check for sex offenders near the neighborhood using the state or federal registry.
Evaluate the Demographics
Demographics of a particular area can also be obtained online. Take note of the neighborhood’s average household income, and compare the education levels and statistics in regards to the national average. Then consider what those characteristics say about the neighborhood relative to the characteristics that are important to you.
Study the Neighborhood Yourself
Take the opportunity to drive through the neighborhood several times, both during the day and at night. Observe how well lit the streets and parks are, and look for signs of vandalism and poor conditions of public property. Make notes on how well properties such as schools, houses, parks and streets are maintained. Signs of neglect and disrepair imply lesser community restrictions and involvement, and increase likelihood of crime.
Talk to Residents and Neighbors
A lot of information can be obtained through current residents who know the area. Pay attention to the friendliness and openness of the neighbors. Ask them questions about Neighborhood Watch Programs, crimes the neighborhoods have experienced and their own security measures. Also ask about the communication between neighbors and the full community. It is well documented that the more home security systems on a given block, the lower the likelihood of crime–even for those homes without a home security system.
Evaluate the Security of the Home
Before buying the house, examine the security measures and possible points of entry for intruders. Make sure the doors and windows are sturdy and the lock is efficient at keeping intruders out. Inspect the house to find how well it has been maintained, evidence of previous forced entry, or if the house has any weak spots that could put your safety at risk.
When You Move In
Even if the neighborhood is acceptable and safe, here are some more measures to take home security further.
1) Change the door locks: When you move in, inspect the doors and windows and change the locks to make them as secure as possible. Make sure all doors are fitted with some sort of deadbolt lock and strike plates. Prevent windows from letting in intruders with locks or bars as well.
2) Introduce your family to the neighbors: Communication between neighbors is an effective way to prevent crimes and other suspicious activities in the neighborhood. Make sure the neighbors know who should be going in and out of your house. That way any other activity they witness, they can report to you.
3) Design a plans of action for emergencies: Talk with your family to devise emergency plans to escape fires, intruders or other hazards. Review the plan to ensure that everyone understands their role and their exit strategy for different situations.
This was a guest post from Sam McBride who writes the home security blog for SafeMart.com
Great post! Thank you HomeFinder and SafeMart for the helpful tips!