How to Test-Drive a Neighborhood While Sheltering in Place

Published:
May 13, 2020
Last updated:
April 18, 2022
In This Article

With the coronavirus pandemic forcing us all to physically distant from each other, it’s having a major impact on who buyers start and continue their search for a new home. And while viewing the home itself is crucial, so is scoping out the neighborhood that you will potentially be calling home at some point.

While visiting in person is still an option, there are other ways to adhere to social distancing measures while still allowing the house hunting process to continue.

Here are some tips for checking out a neighborhood while still sheltering in place.

Check Out Neighborhood Publications and Local Social Media

Read print publications and join social media groups that connect local residents.

Take a Walk With Google

Google Street View is a great way to see the neighborhood without leaving your couch.

Understand Your Daily Commute

How long you’ll spend getting to and from work every day is a big factor to consider.

Browse Websites With Neighborhood Data

Explore reviews from local residents, the costs of living statistics, and more.

Check Safety Ratings

Crime rates can give you a picture of neighborhood safety, which can also impact home values.

Investigate Schools and Educational Data

Rankings and reviews are key when finding the right school for your family.

Call a Real Estate Agent

Work with a trusted professional to make sure you’re always well informed by an expert.

As you can see, there are plenty of things you can do right now to stay safe from COVID-19 while also continuing your search for a new home in a great neighborhood. Consider any one of the above tips to help avoid having to grind your search to a halt while keeping on track of finding a new place to call home.

How to Test-Drive a Neighborhood While Sheltering in Place

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