6 Game Changing Neighborhood Traits That Buyers Are Looking For

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average buyer looks at 10 properties throughout a 10-week span before finally making a purchasing decision. Your job as a real estate professional is to simplify this process by finding and showing them properties that meet all of their requirements.

But helping your clients find the home of their dreams will require more than just showing properties that include all the amenities they are looking for. What really makes a difference is the neighborhood that comes with it. Here are six game changing neighborhood traits that buyers look for prior to purchasing a home.

1. Convenience of Public Transportation

Having easy access to public transportation, while often overlooked, can be a huge plus in the eyes of soon-to-be homeowners. This is especially true for those who live in urban areas where any commute can turn into a nightmare. Ask your clients if they'd prefer to be centrally located near a public transportation line and it will help narrow down the scope of your search.

2. High Walk Scores

A Walk Score is the rating that a neighborhood receives based on its walkability. Some of the determinants of this score include: pedestrian design; types of streets, parks and public spaces; income level and a defined neighborhood center. High Walk Scores are strong indications of a good quality neighborhood, so it would be smart to share this score with clients who are considering moving to a particular area.

3. Conveniently Located Businesses

Conveniently located restaurants, grocery stores, gyms, salons and any other local businesses that a homeowner will frequent can be a big factor when choosing the right home. Nothing says convenience like running up to the store for a last minute dinner or fitting in a quick workout before getting the children ready for school. Plus, it helps improve the value of a neighborhood itself.

4. Quality of Schools

A neighborhood's school district has always been a big factor in the value of a home. If your clients have children, they'll definitely want them to be in best learning environment possible. Even if they don't have children now, they may be planning for a family in the future and you'll want to make sure that you are taking this into consideration when searching for properties to show them. Check out the Homes.com School Scores tool, which uses state test performance data to compare public schools within your client's search area or even across the state. It's a great way to provide accurate data that will help make them make the best decision for their children's educational future.

5. Great Lawn Space

Whether every home has a ton of property or just a little area to call their own, lawn space can definitely make a neighborhood more appealing. When touring a neighborhood, your clients will be envisioning what it would be like to live there. If there are families outside throwing the ball with their kids or playing around with their dog, it will leave your clients with a much higher opinion of the area.

6. Future Growth Potential

It's always important to look ahead when considering the value of a neighborhood. Although it may be a perfect fit now, vacant lots or properties in need of major repairs could be signs of changes to come down the road. Be sure that your clients are aware of the zoning and construction regulations for any neighborhood they are considering, as it could affect their own expansion plans in the future.

These factors have the potential to steer a buyer from one neighborhood to another, so be sure you're taking them into consideration when providing your clients with properties to tour. Whether your clients are moving down the street or across the country, Homes.com's neighborhood report tool is a great way to compare the key features of any neighborhood your clients may be interested in.

To view the original article, visit the Homes.com blog.