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Austin Apartment Classifieds > Area Perfect Neighborhood

It’s perfect…The best classified apartment in all of Austin, Texas as far as you’re concerned. New appliances, a spacious floor plan and a lovely south-facing balcony. You’re ready to sign the lease, eager in fact.  Before you do, take a step back and survey beyond the walls of what could be your new home. Ask yourself some questions. Is this Austin neighborhood a safe one? Are there stores nearby? Is the area accessible by transit?

The Perfect Austin Neighborhood – Or Is It?

Before you say, “I’ll take it,” think long and hard about whether this is the right neighborhood in Austin, Texas for you. Makes note of the things you like about the complex then go outside and tour the neighborhood on foot. Look over other apartments or houses in the area. Are they well maintained? Does there seem to be the sense of community you are looking for? Visit the local businesses in this Austin area. Is there a convenience store nearby, a grocery store or a pharmacy? Where will you go when you need that one last egg?

Consider some other factors as well:

• Is there litter on the streets or suspicious characters lurking around? Listen for clues, things that are not always visible. Do you hear tires screeching or car alarms blaring

• Some Austin neighborhoods have a dual personality – quiet in the daytime but noisy and unsafe at night. Visit your potential neighborhood in the evening to see if yours is one of these.

• Don’t assume because your building is next to a church that it will be quiet during the week – many churches in Austin, Texas are very active 7 days a week.

• Ask and ye shall find. Ask other Austin apartment dwellers, shop keepers and people on the street what kind of neighborhood this is? Chances are you’ll get the real scoop.

• Check crime statistics in this Austin neighborhood you’re thinking of moving to. Much of this data is available online or through the local police department. Be very careful of who and where you get your safety information from, many people have a distorted sense of crime levels in their community.

• Visit the local school (if you have children.) Meet with the principal and ask about the school’s academic performance, after school programs and extra curricular activities. If your children have any special needs, make sure this Austin school can accommodate them. Estimate how long it will take to drive or walk to school. Is the distance manageable?

• What amenities are nearby? Is there a community center, a recreation facility or a daycare? How far is the nearest medical clinic or hospital?

• If you have special interests or needs in your life, make sure this neighborhood can accommodate them.

• Is the neighborhood and the building kid friendly (if you have kids)? Some complexes cater to working singles and may not be an ideal environment for kids.

• Is the particular Austin neighborhood you’re interested in littered with for sale and for rent signs? If so, consider why.

While it is important your Austin apartment or town home is aesthetically pleasing, it is also vital it be one you can feel safe and happy in. If your instincts tell you the neighborhood is questionable, listen. Remember, if one neighborhood is not to your liking, Austin offers a large number of other diverse and affordable neighborhoods. Be sure to take your time and investigate. If this turns out to be a great neighborhood for you – you will have a head start on exploring it.

If you’re searching for Austin apartments, take the time to browse our online classifieds. 
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