If you’re trying to find the right home in Alabama, you’ll need to look at more than square footage and interior updates. Plan on looking at the community itself as you decide where the best place to plant roots is in the Yellowhammer State. With college towns, rural communities, and cities, you’ll have a range of options. Just be sure to take time to find the setting that meets your needs most effectively.
Read on as we explore why choosing the right Alabama community is so important, and what you should factor into your decision.
Start with the Location
Are you interested in a bustling city with an active nightlife? Or are you hoping for a tranquil setting with wide open spaces? The answer to questions like these should guide your home search, and you’ll have an extensive inventory of new homes in Alabama to suit any answer. Opt for Birmingham or Jacksonville if you’re seeking a bigger city with an active nightlife and top amenities. Choose Auburn and Tuscaloosa if you enjoy a lively college town experience. Or look at Fairhope or Magnolia Springs if a quieter, smaller town is more up your alley.
Consider proximity to highways and airports if you travel a lot. And consider access to key services, such as hospitals, emergency care, and employment opportunities. Your investment in a home can grow if you make a savvy choice.
Evaluate Amenities
When you’re checking out Alabama communities, look closely at the amenities. Especially if you enjoy shopping or finding community activities, you’ll want to find a town that offers what you need to be happy. If you have kids, look for spacious parks, museums, and local pools. If you’re very active, focus on communities with easy access to hiking trails or fitness centers. Remember that amenities can be central to how your days and weeks feel, so it’s important to prioritize what features will positively impact you and your family.
Look at Schools
If you have children, you can’t overlook schools during the househunting process. Whether you have children or not, a strong school system can elevate a community’s profile, quality of services, and home values. Tour any schools under consideration and look at graduation rates, student-teacher ratios, and extracurricular activities. See how long it takes to drive to schools and other services in a community, too, so you’re not blindsided by a long commute.
Factor Long-Term Value into the Equation
While Alabama is a popular state with great cities, a coastline, and other natural resources, not every community is growing at the same rate. And if you’re looking at your home as an investment, you’ll want to choose a high-growth area where your home value can grow, too. That way, if you ever decide to move, you’ll be able to set a higher listing price.
Look at job growth in areas under consideration, as well as real estate prices. Ask an agent about upcoming community development projects. Check crime rates and look for physical evidence that the community is kept up well. Communities with more vacant storefronts or dwindling job markets may not offer a strong return on your investment, even if you otherwise like the area.
Choose the Right Alabama Community
Finding a good Alabama community takes time and research. Determine your community priorities and review your options. Check amenities, schools, and job growth to find a community that is on the rise. Alabama offers a wealth of choices, but it’s important to look for one that provides the blend of features you value the most.
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