One of the most common questions any real estate professional has to answer is, “What is the best neighborhood for me and my family?” Here are 3 things to keep in mind:

Little things are big things
When selecting a neighborhood, you may be tempted to discount a few small annoyances and focus on the big things you really like. However, when you live in a neighborhood for several years, small annoyances can really add up and soon dominate your experience in that neighborhood. Seek out a neighborhood that has a myriad of small pleasures.

Look for neighbors, not a neighborhood
When you buy a new home, you are joining a new community. Joining the right community can furnish you with trusted babysitters, reliable carpools, authentic friendships, and a support group for whatever comes your way. Find a group of neighbors you enjoy spending time with, and you can be certain that you’ll enjoy the neighborhood on many different levels.

Don’t obsess over numbers
Numbers are important, but selecting a neighborhood is, on some level, an emotional decision, and it should be treated accordingly. Crime statistics, school test scores, and home appreciation projections can only take you so far. Ultimately, no computer readout can make the decision for you. Trust your instincts and seek out that “a-ha moment”—the point when you know you‘ve found a place that feels like home.