Searching for a new place to live with your family requires a lot of planning. You may need to consider safety, recreational opportunities and schools. These four ways of finding a new place can simplify your search.

Word-of-Mouth and Personal Experience
One of the best ways to learn about a neighborhood is to visit it at different times of the day and different days of the week. On a Saturday morning on a nice day, you may see families outside playing at parks or riding bikes. On a Tuesday morning, you may see families dropping kids off at school. Word-of-mouth recommendations from people who live in particular neighborhoods can give you accurate details about what it is like to live there.

School Rankings Websites
If you have children who are school-age or who will soon be the age to go to school, you may want to consider school rankings in your decision on where to raise your family. School rankings websites from the state department of education, independent non-profit organizations and even school parent-teacher organizations can help you to choose a home that is assigned to a great public school or that is in close proximity to a desirable private school. You could look for schools based on the teacher to student ratio, classroom size, academic performance or the variety of academic, extracurricular and arts offerings.

Working With a Realtor
Working with a realtor is an excellent way to find a new place to raise your family. Some realtors, like Donna Lasater Real Estate & Property Management, know how important it is to have a good place to raise your kids in. Many realtors have the inside scoop about the best neighborhoods for young kids. Your realtor can help you to find a home in a neighborhood that is close to great parks, the library and excellent schools. A realtor can also assist you in finding a home that will meet your family’s needs for safety, such as a fenced back yard.

Census Data
You can look to the U.S. Bureau of the Census’ website to find out detailed data about neighborhoods you are considering moving to. The data will show how many households have kids, the density of the housing and the average income level of each household. This data is publicly available, easy to use and can help you choose a neighborhood that best suits your lifestyle.

Finding a new place to raise your family requires some research, but the effort is worthwhile. Your realtor, friends and acquaintances are also valuable resources. With these tips, you can find a place that is safe and enjoyable.

4 Ways to Find a New Place to Raise Your Family by Rachelle Wilber | Realty Biz News