Buying a home requires many decisions. The first thing many buyers consider is their budget. Then they list their must-haves such as number of bedrooms and bathrooms and whether or not they want a pool. Although you may know you'd like to move to Palm Harbor, Apollo Beach, Trinity, or another town in the Tampa Bay area, you may not have seriously considered which specific type of neighborhood you prefer. Here are some things to think about so your Realtor® can help you find a neighborhood that you love.
HOA or No HOA
Newer communities often have a homeowner’s association. First, this means you’ll have monthly or quarterly dues, and second, you'll have some neighborhood amenities. With an HOA also comes regulations. Some regulations are there to keep your community looking great and others are there to prevent in-home businesses, short-term rentals, and other things the board (and residents) decided they don’t want in the neighborhood. If you’re not willing to abide by the community regulations and pay the dues, choose a neighborhood without an HOA.
Walkability
If you enjoy being active outdoors and around your neighborhood, you may want to specify walkability as a feature in the neighborhoods you and your Realtor® view. Sidewalks are important for safety, especially if you plan on walking or running in your future neighborhood. Walkability also speaks to being able to walk to conveniences like a grocery store, restaurants, parks and public transportation. If being able to walk to a local ice cream shop or restaurant is important, be sure to make that known. Although walkable neighborhoods aren’t as prevalent as they once were, there are plenty within the Tampa Bay area.
Demographics
Many people choose to move to a new neighborhood with young families once they begin to have children. Others decide to downsize or move to a new community once their children grow up and leave home. As you look at buying a home, would you prefer to move to an area with a mix of young families, couples, and empty nesters or do you want to be in a community where the residents are in a similar life stage as you? Although your Realtor® won’t know exactly the type of families in every community, you can get a good idea based on the types of cars in the driveway (minivans and SUVs often mean families) and by driving through neighborhoods you’re considering on both weekdays and weekends.
I’d love to help you find the perfect home in your ideal neighborhood. With nearly two decades of experience in real estate in the greater Tampa Bay area, I know the subdivisions and communities that would be perfect for you, no matter what your definition of perfect is. Call me today at (813) 992-7771. We can help you buy or sell a home today.
