Where to live, invest and possibly raise a family is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Everyone has different wishes and needs, so it's difficult to pursuade someone why one particular town may be the BEST. It's a very subjective and personal decision.
What factors should you consider? How do you start narrowing it down? MoneyCrashers.com put together a list of things to think about that I find helpful, especially if you're relocating to a new town.
Read the full article:
http://www.moneycrashers.com/where-should-i-live-decide-best-places/
Recently, my town was ranked "Best Suburb to Buy a Home" but Niche.com. This was very exciting and I've been sharing with everyone! :)
Why did my husband and I decide to buy here? Top of the list was; property taxes, convenience to major roads, affordability, good schools and walking distance to things we like to do- restaurants & parks. The home needed work, but Location Location Location won us over!
Here are the Top 5 Towns that made the list:
What factors should you consider? How do you start narrowing it down? MoneyCrashers.com put together a list of things to think about that I find helpful, especially if you're relocating to a new town.
1. Affordability
No matter what your pay grade is, living comfortably and within your means should be your first concern. Affordability includes more than just housing expenses; the prices for consumable goods, like groceries, vary greatly from town to town. The price of gasoline, utility services including electric and water, and taxes, also varies.
2. Taxes
Consider local sales tax, income tax, and tax credits and exemptions when you’re looking for the perfect place to live. Did you know that there are five states that have no sales taxes? That’s right: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon don’t collect sales tax for retail sales and some services. In addition, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming don’t collect individual income taxes.
3. Employment Opportunities
Do your research before you move, and ideally, find a job before you relocate. Employment opportunities vary from state to state and city to city, so spend some time researching the job markets in different areas of the country. Start by analyzing quality employment opportunities within your industry, then determine where the highest concentration of these jobs are located.
4. Real Estate Value
With real estate in a constant state of flux, it’s important to research current home prices, the length of time homes are for sale, the resale values of homes, and probable long-term value estimates.
In addition, carefully review local housing price trends. Websites like Zillow.com and Trulia.com can help you gain a grasp of the local real estate market. (and my website www.KellySteyn.com!)
5. Crime Rates and Statistics
By researching the crime rates and statistics for various areas, you can learn more about the safety of a town or neighborhood. You can also check out Crime Reports, which lets you review crime statistics for different neighborhoods.
Keep in mind that just because an area is safe today does not guarantee that it will be safe in the future. The long-term stability for a neighborhood can be a determining factor in how safe your surroundings are. Also, consider the future development of a particular location as you narrow down your choices.
6. Proximity to Family and Friends
Do you have a large extended family? Do you spend the holidays with your family and friends? These are important factors to consider when choosing where to live.
If extended family and friends are important to you, choose a place either within driving distance or within a reasonable distance by plane.
7. Climate
The climate plays a large role in our lives as it impacts our hobbies, behavior, and sometimes even our jobs. Living in the climate in which you are most comfortable contributes to your mental health, so choose wisely!
8. Education System
Nonprofit websites like GreatSchools are a great source for parents looking for the ideal schools for their children. The quality of the public schools factors into your finances, too, since tuition for a private school can be extremely expensive.
9. Culture
If you crave constant cultural stimulation, you definitely want to choose a place that has a lot of cultural offerings. If you enjoy being around a specific religious or ethnic community with your same beliefs and interests, this should be a factor in where you choose to live.
10. Commute Time and Public Transportation Options
The length of time it takes to get to work can be a determining factor in the decision to move to a new locale. With gas prices rising and commute times becoming longer, utilizing public transportation options like light rail, train, or bus can be an inexpensive, time-saving way for you and your family to get around.
11. Food Options
If you’re a foodie, you may want to try to find a place to live near the ocean or near a metropolitan city center.
12. Town or City Size
If you enjoy a friendly wave from everyone you pass while driving to the post office, then a smaller town is definitely for you. If you wish to remain relatively anonymous, a larger town or a big city is better suited to your personality.
13. Healthcare Facilities
Easy access to good healthcare can increase your quality of life exponentially, so be on the lookout for towns and cities with good hospitals and medical schools.
14. Proximity to an Airport
If you travel a lot, you may need to live within close proximity of an airport.
http://www.moneycrashers.com/where-should-i-live-decide-best-places/
Recently, my town was ranked "Best Suburb to Buy a Home" but Niche.com. This was very exciting and I've been sharing with everyone! :)
Why did my husband and I decide to buy here? Top of the list was; property taxes, convenience to major roads, affordability, good schools and walking distance to things we like to do- restaurants & parks. The home needed work, but Location Location Location won us over!
Here are the Top 5 Towns that made the list:
Best Suburbs to Buy a Home
- West Conshohocken, PA
- Waukee, IA
- Centerton, AR
- Chapin, SC
- Fishers, IN
For more rankings, check out: https://local.niche.com/rankings/?source=release
