Every homebuyer has a list of things that they are looking for in a property: number of bedrooms, walk-in closet, gourmet kitchen, or the size of the backyard. But more than the features of the house itself, the kind of neighborhood it is in should be on top of your list.
The location of the property as well as the amenities and accessibility are significant considerations when you are looking for a home to buy. Here are 5 neighborhood features that boost resale value according to Trulia:
Walkability
Wouldn't it be nice to just walk out the front door and get a good 5-minute walk to the grocery to get some milk? "Whether you're a young, urban professional or a baby boomer, homeowners want to be able to walk or bike to local eateries, bars, grocery stores, banking, and more," says Brad Pauly, of Pauly & Presley Realty. "If a new restaurant opens in a desirable, walkable neighborhood, that could increase the value of that property."
Amenities
Who wouldn't love to have easy access to a swimming pool, fitness facility, parks and play areas (for you and your furry friends too), or sports fields when you walk out of your home?
"We're seeing increased interest in neighborhoods with amenities that rival a resort: workout facilities, pools, playgrounds," says Sharon Voss of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Historic charm
"The historic character of a neighborhood tends to help resale value, as it is a feature that is difficult to replicate," shares Ross Anthony of Willis Allen Real Estate. "Many times, historically designated districts will aim to maintain a certain level of uniformity and have community commissions to help preserve the neighborhood aesthetic, which in turn will help preserve values."
Unique homes
Semi custom and custom homes prove to be a more popular choice among homebuyers.
"Areas with custom and semicustom homes, compared to cookie-cutter production homes, tend to show larger increases in value over time," says Anthony. "More astute buyers prefer unique homes with character that add to the charm of the neighborhood and are more likely to own for longer periods of time, creating less turnover in the neighborhood."
Schools
A neighborhood situated within a great school district will no doubt benefit from a good resale value.
"If a home is in a quality school district, those communities tend to not only retain their value, but appreciate as well," adds Pauly. "There will always be parents who want their children attending great schools."
