By Vanessa Saunders Founder & CEO – Global Property Systems
When looking to buy a new home, safety is paramount. Knowing the crime rate of a potential neighborhood can provide peace of mind and affect your decision. Here’s how to evaluate the crime rate effectively before you commit to buying a house.
Step 1: Use Online Crime Mapping Services
Websites like CrimeReports and SpotCrime allow you to view reported crimes in various neighborhoods. By entering the address or ZIP code of the area you’re interested in, you can access detailed crime data, including types of crimes and their frequency.
Step 2: Visit the Local Police Station
Nothing beats local knowledge when it comes to understanding a community’s safety. Visit or call the local police department to discuss recent crime trends. The officers can provide insights that aren’t always visible through statistics alone.
Step 3: Talk to Neighbors
Speaking to residents can give you a clearer picture of what it’s like to live in the area. They can share their experiences and whether they feel safe, providing a more personal perspective on the crime statistics you’ve researched.
Step 4: Review Neighborhood Watch Programs
A strong neighborhood watch program is a good indicator of community cohesion and a collective effort towards safety. Investigate whether the neighborhood you’re interested in has an active program that can help reduce crime rates.
Step 5: Consider the Impact on Property Value
Areas with high crime rates can affect property values. Lower crime rates tend to lead to higher property values, making your investment safer and potentially more profitable in the long run.
