After working with countless families over the years, we’ve found that narrowing down the community you would like to live in is one of the hardest things to do as a prospective buyer! There are so many amazing choices in Denver, CO, so it can be hard to figure out the perfect neighborhood match for you and your family. Since this is likely one of the most significant financial decisions of your life, you’re going to want to make sure you find the perfect location to settle down in. We recommend that you work with a professional who can help prevent you from winding up in an area that doesn’t fit your lifestyle. 

To help you get started, there are several factors to consider when making your decision: cost of living, school districts, neighborhood safety, commute distance, and local activities. 

Cost of Living

You’ll want to research the cost of living in the area by checking out how much food, healthcare, and transportation costs. Can you afford the local property and school taxes? These are factors that vary greatly per county, so look beyond just the cost of the house and don’t forget to factor in these expenses!

School District 

Do you currently have or plan on having kids? We know that not everyone will find themselves in this situation, but, if this applies to you, you’ll want to determine if the schools in the area are a fit for your family. Check out school district data like test scores, sports, and extracurricular activities at the local middle school and high school levels.

Test Scores

Looking into test scores shows if the district is performing at, under, or above state averages. Local school data can also provide demographics, graduation rates, and curriculum information. 

Sports and Extracurricular Activities

Finding a district with sports and extracurricular activities allows your kid(s) to access activities and hobbies that interest them and set them up for success. Remember, competitive high school sports teams and extracurricular activities can open the door to future opportunities at the college level! 

Safety 

Safety should be your top priority when scoping out new locations to buy a home in Denver, CO. When it comes to safety in a new neighborhood, do your research by looking into local crime rates. Speaking with family, friends, and locals who know the neighborhood can give you firsthand insight into the safety of the area and what it is like to live there. 

Commute Distance

If you have a job requiring you to be in the office, you must consider your commute for the workday. How many miles are you willing to drive, ride, walk, or bike each day? If you find a neighborhood you really like, run through your route on a normal weekday to get a feel for the commute before deciding. If driving yourself isn’t an option, see what type of public transportation is available, like local trains, subways, and buses. 

Activities in the Area

Consider what you are looking for as far as amenities in your new neighborhood and if you prefer something more serene or spot with a little more hustle and bustle. Do you prefer the outdoors with access to local hiking trails, paths, and parks? Or, would you prefer to be in the heart of the city near mainstream shopping and dining? When checking out the local social scene and entertainment, these are some items to consider. 

Ready to Buy Your Dream Home?

If you’re not exactly sure which community is best for you and your family, The Reynolds Team is here to help! We know how confusing this process can be and we would love to serve you in finding your dream home! Our team specializes in helping families narrow down their priorities to find the perfect home and community match. If you are considering making a move, please call us today at 303-529-0697.