Rule 1. Drive through all the neighborhoods in your price range. Determine which one overall has the best feel for you. Picture yourself driving home in the evening. Which community is most appealing as you end your commute? Which would make you feel most at home? This is a gut-feel issue. As you consider different communities, you must enter your feelings into the decision making process. Rule 2. Cruise several of the streets in the neighborhood you find most appealing. Is there consistent pride of ownership? One poorly maintained home can bring down the value of an entire neighborhood. Consistency of curb appeal is critical. Are there CC&Rs covering the community? If so, are you comfortable living in an area where there are such rules? Rule 3. Research the quality of schools that serve the community. Schools may or may not be important to you as an individual, but they may be critical to the future buyer of your property. Grade schools can dramatically impact the coming values in a particular neighborhood. Rule 4. Are there common areas or parks near the locale. Is the neighborhood child friendly? Are you looking for an area that attracts young families? Is there a neighborhood common area such as a clubhouse, pool or tennis court? If so, are these amenities maintained by a homeowner's association? What are the monthly dues? Are they excessive? Is neighborhood recreation appealing to you? Will these amenities add to the value of your home when its time for you to sell ...