Choosing a neighborhood to build a new home or purchase an existing home requires a lot of thought. There are many things to consider such as the price, location, and amenities. To help you get started, we’re sharing a list of both natural and man-made elements to think about while selecting a new neighborhood. Check them out below!

Natural Elements to Think About

Trees, Vistas, and Water

Natural elements, like the neighborhood’s proximity to lakes and oceans, make a big difference. While one of the most desired locations for homeowners, waterfront homes and properties tend to cost more. In addition, the more natural elements a neighborhood has, the less man-made amenities will be available. Heavily wooded areas, for example, will have less open fields because developers typically keep as many trees as possible. In addition, some neighborhoods will have less useable yard space due to the natural terrain’s elevation.

Geographic Proximity

Larger cities consist of a micro market of smaller neighborhoods and communities. When deciding on your new neighborhood, it’s important to evaluate how easily you can access local amenities and major roadways. Ask yourself:

  • How long of a commute am I willing to make to work?
  • Where is the nearest grocery store?
  • Is it important to me to be close to area shopping, dining, and entertainment?
  • What school district is this neighborhood in?
  • Am I willing to switch school districts?

Other things to consider in terms of location is how likely it is you’ll hear noise from roadways and airports, as well as the neighborhood’s location to industrial areas.

Man-Made Elements to Think About

Trail Systems

Most new communities have interconnected walking, running, and biking trails worked into the plan by the city’s municipal planning commissions. When weighing the pros and cons of the neighborhood, ask the municipal committee to provide you with a map of any current and future trails. From there, you can evaluate how they interact with your chosen home or homesite. Not everyone wants their backyard to be a high-traffic area, after all!

Parks and Recreation Areas

Like the plans for future biking, walking, and hiking trails, many new neighborhoods will include parks, open space, and recreation areas in their plans. In some cases, these things may not yet exist, though they have land designated to build them on in the near future. Existing parks and recreation areas may also be updated as more homes are built in the neighborhood. In some cases, the park department may even ask for input from residents before finalizing plans.

Master Planned Neighborhoods

Master planned neighborhoods are typically composed of many smaller neighborhoods that fall under one amenity package. These neighborhoods usually have private amenities that can only be accessed by members of the community. They often include a pool, clubhouse, playgrounds, and walking trails. Waterfront communities may even include access to a private marina. If a neighborhood has these amenities, it’s likely they will be managed by an association and there will be a monthly fee.

Triple Crown Homes builds in many beautiful communities throughout Marion County. To see a full list, please click here. If you’d like to learn more about our communities, available homesites, or move-in ready homes, contact our team. We’d love to hear from you!