Purchasers Advice Selecting New Community - Page 38
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What are the three most important criteria in choosing a property? As any real estate broker will tell you, "Location, location, location." Because you're buying into a community and not just a home, your choice is critical to both the home's future investment potential and to its livability.
Defining a community
A community corresponds roughly to a town. One community will differ from another on the basis of:
- Geographical setting
- Price and style of homes
- Accessibility
- Population density
- Age
- Desirability
It's wise to narrow your initial selection to two or three communities. Examine your present surroundings; specify those features you hope to keep or change in your new community.
Services
Never underestimate the importance of essential services. Water, natural gas, police and fire protection, sewer systems, garbage collection and snow removal all affect the livability of an area. Also, look into:
- Recreational facilities - Public swimming facilities, tennis courts, golf courses or racquetball courts.
- Medical services - Hospitals, physicians, dentists or special needs.
- Cultural facilities - Nearby colleges, adult education courses, concert facilities or museums.
- Newcomer's club - A club to help you socially acclimate to your new community.
Schools
If you have children, the quality of education available in a community is an important consideration. Schools vary from one community to the next, so it's a good idea to visit the schools, speak to the principals and find out about:
- Academic standing
- Class size
- Special programs
- Extracurricular activities
- Sports programs
- Community support of education
Convenience
You'll also want to consider:
- Commuting distance and time to work.
- The area's conveniences or isolation. Drive around to find out what is or isn't within reasonable distance.
Taxes
Property taxes - Property taxes are established by the local government on an annual basis. These funds are used to run your town, county or city. The largest portion of this usually goes toward education.
Resale homes - In many areas, property taxes may be raised or the property reappraised when a house is resold. Check the local custom and determine what the cost to you will be.
New homes - The taxes quoted by the builder may be on undeveloped land, or they may be a "guesstimate" of the tax bill. Check to determine the actual costs.
Localities - As a general rule, suburban and rural communities have lower taxes than large cities, but may not provide the same services. All those facilities and services cost money. After your mortgage payment, your tax bill is likely to be your biggest home ownership cost. Find out:
- What your tax bill will be and what it includes.
- If real estate assessments and taxes are recalculated at time of resale.
- The potential for any special assessments, such as new sewers or water lines.
- That portion (if any) of real estate taxes earmarked for public education.
- If your taxes are expected to increase because the town is growing quickly.
Financial considerations - Consider value received against costs incurred..
- Taxes may be comparatively low in a particular town, but will this adversely affect public services such as education, police protection or snow removal?
- Will extra assessments and levies directly benefit you?
- Are there indications of steadily increasing property values?
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Welcome to The Retreat, an exclusive gated community boasting a wealth of amenities and privately owned cottages, predominantly occupied by Univers...
Reduced -$5,100
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201-5626
The Retreat
Residential
Craftsman Style cottages in a gated neighborhood that is geared toward college students. The Retreat offers an exclusively unique opportunity for p...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Parents and investors, if you are looking for a perfect place for your college kids or to invest, look no further! This 3BR/3BA unit in the Retreat...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
THE RETREAT - GREAT INVESTMENT. FULLY RENTED WITH 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEARS with RENT AT $3,475 / MO
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Welcome to The Retreat, an exclusive gated community boasting a wealth of amenities and privately owned cottages, predominantly occupied by Univers...
Reduced -$5,100
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
This the sought after Magnolia floor plan - 5 bedrooms. Currently rented for $3,202. Gated neighborhood focusing in Student Housing. Outstanding in...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
A gated neighborhood focused on a safe and secure college student environment. A Shuttle to and from USC campus. Two swimming pools, two clubhouses...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
THE RETREAT- A gated neighborhood focused on a safe and secure college student environment. Shuttle to and from USC campus. Two swimming pools, two...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Parents and investors, if you are looking for a perfect place for your college kids or to invest, look no further! This 3BR/3BA unit in the Retreat...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Welcome to The Retreat! A gated community, primarily of University of South Carolina students. The perfect investment for parents or investors. The...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201-5625
The Retreat
Residential
Craftsman Style cottages in a gated neighborhood that is geared toward college students. The Retreat offers an exclusively unique opportunity for p...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Investors what an opportunity!!!! If you are looking for a great investment that will provide cashflow dont look any further. We have a beautiful f...
Reduced -$22,500
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Excellent opportunity in The Retreat, USC's premier student housing community! This floor plan with 4 bed 4 bath property is always one of the firs...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201-5625
The Retreat
Residential
Craftsman Style cottages in a gated neighborhood that is geared toward college students. The Retreat offers an exclusively unique opportunity for p...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Gated neighborhood focusing in Student Housing. Outstanding investment record and returns.
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Excellent 4 bed 4 bath home in the retreat. Property is in good condition and move in ready for tenants. Currently all 4 bedrooms are leased and 3 ...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
THE RETREAT - A gated neighborhood of cottages focusing on student housing and student life. Outstanding investment with each bedroom rented at ove...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Investment Opportunity: USC Student Rental Portfolio Welcome to an exceptional investment opportunity tailored for buyers seeking a lucrative renta...
1929 Bluff Road
Columbia, SC 29201
The Retreat
Residential
Investment Opportunity: USC Student Rental Portfolio Welcome to an exceptional investment opportunity tailored for buyers seeking a lucrative renta...
512 Ridge Trail Drive
Columbia, SC 29229
The Summit - Autumn Hill
Residential
This charming home is nestled in the tranquil neighborhood of Autumn Hill within The Summit community. With 1,524 square feet, it offers a comforta...
Reduced -$5,000