9 Things need to Know When Moving to a New Neighborhood

15 December 2017

Moving to a new neighborhood can be daunting. Just because a neighborhood looks inviting does not necessarily mean peace of mind. Ever gone phone shopping without knowing the specifications and how it will meet your needs? Shopping blind means you may go home with something less than ideal for your needs.

The same goes for looking for a new neighborhood to move in. You can’t call your agent after moving in a couple of days to say you do not like the place. Before you sign a lease or mortgage do your homework first.

Thanks to the internet, you don’t have to worry about how to find a job based on your geolocation. I mean, online Ghanaian job postings for employers have facilitated the search for jobs.

Nevertheless, searching for the neighborhood of your dreams means you have to consider a lot of other things. For instance, you might want to consider safety, amenities, architectural style, just to name a few.

These are some questions to ask yourself before moving to a new neighborhood. These questions will help you to streamline your search in finding the perfect neighborhood with your specifications.

Question 1

Does the neighborhood have sidewalks?

Reason

A lot of people do not think of sidewalks when searching for a new neighborhood. Sidewalks actually say a lot about the neighborhood. Sidewalks suggest an active presence of your neighbors. It means amenities are easily accessible either by walking or jogging.

Sidewalks also mean the neighborhood is safer. This is because you are less likely to get hit by a car when taking a stroll. The safety of sidewalks makes it extremely desirable especially if you have children and pets.

Question 2

Do you have to take care of taxes and other expenses?

Reason

Most often than not, we focus on buying a home but forget additional expenses. These costs should be an important factor in your decision to move to a new neighborhood. For instance, you may be responsible for your pricey home owner’s association fees when moving to a condo or country club. Some of these fees come with rules so you need to understand these before making a decision. If the association forbids parking of motorcycles in driveways and you happen to own one, it is time to consider.

Property taxes are another important cost people overlook particularly if you escrow and pay as part of your mortgage payment. Property taxes are taxed based on the value of your home. Therefore, they can increase if you escrow which changes your monthly payment. Prepare yourself to make sure your budget can handle such increment.

On the other hand, if you decide to move to a declining housing market, your taxes may decrease. It has its own perks as well. Moving to such a neighborhood means less access to good public services.

Question 3

Does the neighborhood have amenities for you and/or your family to indulge in activities?

Reason

This is a pretty obvious question. Whether you’re single, have a family with children or is retired with your spouse pretty much sums up what you should look out for in a neighborhood. You will want a new neighborhood that has everything to suit your lifestyle.

For families with children, they might be interested in communities with parks, a swimming pool, libraries, and others. A young single person with a dog might want a neighborhood with a dog park or bike trails. If you enjoy a good movie at the cinema and you have to drive a long distance to access one from the new neighborhood you might want to reconsider.

On the other hand, a new neighborhood may not have some amenities. You will have to compromise in some situations. Make sure the necessary basic amenities are within your reach.

Question 4

Does the neighborhood provide you with convenience?

Reason

Convenience is walking to a shopping center nearby and accomplishing several errands within a very short period. Convenience is getting easy access to stores you frequently visit. The biggest convenience is the ease to commute to work daily.

In other words, the more convenient your neighborhood is, the more it affects your happiness. Moving to a neighborhood that has your favorite stores within reach is a plus. Not only do you save money on gas, but you also get to patronize these services at your own time.

Ask yourself this, do I have to double my commute trip to work or to school if I move to this neighborhood? Is it really worth that trouble?

Question 5

What are your plans for the future?

Reason

The neighborhood may look great in the present but may be liable to change in the future. In a neighborhood you move into, living in the here and now may be a good outlook on life. However, it does not necessarily mean a good neighbourhood.

Check with your local planning office about future developments in your area. It is because you may not want to purchase a new home only to find out it’s in the middle of a new community college. Visiting the planning office and inform you of any future construction project that will affect the neighborhood.

So you like the quiet private nature of the neighborhood with mature trees lined up along each side. Probably in the future, these trees will be cut down to build another subdivision. So even if your lot is not directly affected, it may impact the serene environment you’ve come to love. All this may affect your decision of moving to the neighborhood.

Question 6

Is the neighborhood situated in a noisy place or has a bad smell?

Reason

Your well being and health is one important factor when choosing a neighborhood to move into. Visiting the neighborhood several times during the day is extremely important. On paper, the place might be a perfect fit for you, but visiting the place will reveal its secrets.

The perfectly lined trees behind the house may be hiding a major road. Train tracks, restaurants, clubs and all that create noise that may be a menace. These bothersome noises will never go away. So while you may get used to them is a gamble.

In addition, in the eventuality that you want to move from the place, it is usually harder to sell a place with so much noise. While you are listening, you may want to get a good whiff of the air in the neighborhood. A stagnant lake, sewage problems, and even a corner BBQ joint can create some odors that do not go away.

Question 7

What is the crime rate in the neighborhood?

Reason

This is for your own sake and safety. You do not want your new home to feel like you are trapped in a war zone. It is also easier to know the crime rate of the neighborhood as they are many websites available for that.

This makes it especially easier for you to decide if you are stuck between two neighborhood choices. If you find a neighborhood you love and to your dismay, you find it has a questionable crime rat, you should speak to your local police office for more details. It could be just a small area away from your new home acting as a crime magnet.

Question 8

Are they good schools?

Reason

This is a very important question to ask if you have children. The presence of public and private schools from kindergarten to high schools affect the value of a home. If you do not have children, it is very important to understand that the quality of the school system in that area will affect the resale of your home.

Also, good schools may add unnecessary costs to your rent if you do not have children. If you do have children, research about the school by seeking advice from fellow parents in the neighborliness. Most schools give tours as well, so might want to take advantage of this. Also, inquire about school activities and extra-curricular activities the school permits.

Question 9

What is the neighborhood culture?

Reason

So you’ve found a neighborhood that fits your budget, has low crime rates, great reviews and all that, what of the culture? Your dream neighbourhood isn’t about statistics and information, is about how the place makes you feel.

If you are used to a hip urban neighborhood, you may not be happy in a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood. Doing so means you have to compromise on some things if that’s your wish. The bottom line is, you won’t be happy moving to a neighborhood that does not fit your lifestyle.

Make sure the neighborhood you choose has the right culture, then other pieces may fall into place.

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Ariana Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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Considerations When Choosing the Ceramic Bathroom Tile

Covering floors means looking for an appropriate tile that will make the bathroom look attractive to give the person using the space to find peace and comfort. Ceramic bathroom tile comes in different sizes and shapes. You can opt for traditional or basic designs. Ceramic tiles add the missing attractive touch to the floors and walls of your bathroom. They are an ideal choice for the bathroom because they resist moisture and are available in different patterns. Depending on the type of taste you have for ceramic tile bathroom, there is always a guarantee that you will find one that will serve you for many years. Bathroom tiles are versatile in that they are appropriate in the shower, walls, around the bathtub, etc. their available in different materials such as ceramic or allow for beautiful mosaic designs. You can do a perfect mix and match to create a design that uniquely defines you. Why Do You Need a Ceramic Bathroom Tile ? Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of colors and designs fit for any home. You can get the look that you need for that specific area at home without compromising the design or quality of materials. Water Resistance Ceramic tiles do not absorb water that lands on their surface and are naturally dry in wet and humid conditions. Durability Ceramic tiles are incredibly durable and not like to crack due to wear and tear. They have a lifespan of between 10 and 20 years. The strength makes it a popular material for many homeowners. They are affordable Other tiles, cannot offer the affordability and can take any form or design without a problem. A ceramic tile bathroom is durable and justifies the cost of purchase for which you can brag about. Tiles are Low Maintenance These bathroom tiles can be cleaned quickly by wiping away or mopping up dust with a liquid or stain remover. Using this low maintenance, tiles on the floor gives busy homeowners time to maintain a healthy and clean environment. Regardless of whether you are looking for simplicity, neatness, or detailed designs, here are ideas that could help in making the final decision. Color One striking feature that leaves a lasting impression on you and visitors is the color. Pick colors that define your purpose or the purpose of the room. From the choices of elegant shades to choose from, one color will fit your bathroom walls and floors. Price The price range depends on your budget. Some people will say that some features only money can buy and others have what you need but may not last long as expected. Play with what features you want to stand out once you get inside the bathroom and the amount of money you intend to spend on specific ceramic tile bathroom. Buying Bathroom Tile to Satisfy a Need Ceramic tiles can undergo customization to define the kind of interaction you want to have with it. The need could be determined by mixing shapes and sizes or playing with styles and designs to see what comes out as what you want. With all these in mind, you are bound to make the best decision when choosing an appropriate ceramic tile bathroom. Make sure to get a tile that will provide the service that you need. Read Also: Bathroom Remodeling Tips And Ideas Bathroom Upgrades You Should Consider Mirror Decorating Ideas To Style Your Bathroom

10 Best Spiky Plants To Decorate Outside Your House

“Flowers are for Tinder dates. Plants are for soul mates.” Growing up, I watched with awe how my mother would convert any space, indoor or outdoor, with some love and a whole lot of plants. While some plants are your usual Begonias and Fuchsias, what attracted me the most was the collection of spiky plants my mom was obsessed with! So it was only natural when I moved to my own place, my ideas on the decor were heavily inspired by my mother’s natural tastes. I couldn’t help filling spaces in my home with plants, and I soon realized I had developed a specific taste for plants that are spiky. But, of course, I refuse to believe that I am alone with my tastes. There have to be more people like me, and this article is for your guys! Keep reading to find out more on the same. Click Here Read Out: 10 Best Aesthetic Plants To Buy In 2022 10 Best Spiky Plants To Decorate Outside Your House: “Don’t let the fear of limited space keep your from buying plants.” Exactly! If you are wondering about the limitation of space, don’t! Because I am here to help you out with alternatives to outdoor spiky plants - if there’s no space inside, hopefully, you will make some outside for these babies. Scroll down to find out the top ten spiky plants for decorating the outside of your house. 1. Agave A native American plant, the Agave thrives the best in arid and hot conditions. The best part? This dark green plant can tolerate droughts and also happens to love the sunlight - perfect for keeping outside your home, and it doesn’t even require a lot of care. Another great thing about this plant is that it lives for nearly three decades. Since there are several species of the Agave plant, it is a little difficult to tell you the approximate growth level of these spiky babies. However, on average, these plants grow somewhere between six to ten feet. But smaller variations might grow up to only four feet. 2. Golden Barrel Cactus Scientifically known as the Echinocactus Grusoni, the Golden Barrel Cactus is a cute addition to any home garden. These cuties are plants with spiky leaves and can grow up to 3 feet on both sides (length and width). Also, the woollen hair in white colour on top of the yellow needle-like spikes only adds to the visual effect of the plant. Although these Golden Barrel Cactus need plenty of watering, sunlight exposure, for some strange reason, is hardly a requirement. In fact, while planting these spiky plants, you will find out they are avoiding the sun by themselves. So it is wiser to plant these in a space place in your garden. 3. Holly Plant Popular as a Christmas symbol for many years, the Holly plant is a classic hedging plant that often provides both shelter and food to the wildlife. Even birds like Robins or Blackbirds feed on the red berries of this spiky plant. And if that was not enough, this plant also happens to be a great source of nectars and pollen for attracting bees. The holly plant is a pretty cool feature for your garden because it brings in so many aspects. Moreover, the spiky leaves act as a deterrent for intruders. Also, since these plants grow slowly, they can easily go up to 30 or even 40 feet in some cases. Holly plants thrive best in well-drained soil that’s slightly acidic but not dry under the sun. 4. California Fuchsia Are you up for some blooming, red addition to your outdoor garden? Then California Fuchsia is probably the best alternative for you especially if you are looking for some low-maintenance plants! The plant radiates the whole summertime floral vibes that can improve anyone’s mood exponentially. And if you are living in some dry area, then this one is surely meant for your garden. The best part? California Fuchsia is primarily known for its flowers which keep growing through Spring, Summer, and straight into Fall. A colourful garden for most parts of the year - isn’t that what gardening dreams are made of? Just one thing - you need to be careful of the vertical spikes in the flowers. Read More: 10 Best Foliage Plants To Buy In 2022 – Must Read! 5. Crown of Thorns Don’t go on its name because Crown of Thorns is one of the most appealing spiky plants out there. The best part about these plants? The Crown of Thorns can easily tolerate droughts and resist heat, making gardening these babies very convenient. In fact, try to avoid overwatering at all costs! Popularly known as the Euphorbia Milii, the Crown of Thorns happens to be the Christ Thorn since it is one such succulent with actual spiky leaves, which are thick, fleshy, and shaped like tears. Native to Madagascar, these spiky plants can grow nearly five to six feet tall. 6. Bougainvillea Plant You already know how beautiful a Bougainvillea plant can be and especially as outdoor decor. But did you know that these are great for security reasons too? Someone once told me how all beautiful things have thorns, and these beautiful Bougainvilleas are no different. The dense, thorny branches of the Bougainvillea plant can keep intruders at bay while adding color to the outdoor decor of your home. Moreover, these tall spiky plants can easily resist droughts and, in fact, thrive well under sunlight. 7. Devil’s Walking Stick Scientifically known as the Aralia Spinosails, the Devil’s Walking Stick is literally named after its characteristic sharp, stout spikes prevalent on its leafy, green stems, branches, and stalks. Native to the forest areas of America, the Devil’s Walking Stick is popular for the clusters of umbrella-like white flowers. This is literally a Devil’s Walking Stick that can grow up to 30 feet on average - the long stems, the orange prickles, the spiny leaves, and the white flowers are all characteristics of these spiky plants. Not only can these tolerate several urban pollutants, but they also can thrive well in a wide variety of soils. 8. Honey Locust Did you know that these spiky plants that go by the name of Honey Locust can grow somewhere between 60 to 100 feet, on average? Aren’t these perfect for stabbing some intruder and boosting the security around your home? In fact, the black or dark grey barks can easily camouflage the thorn once the sun goes down. - perfect foliage plants for your home! The best part? The Honey Locust is a plant that can easily adapt to any situation and thrive well under urban conditions. These can resist droughts and grows well in soil that is well-drained as well as moist! You May Love To Read This: 10 Best Trailing Indoor Plants To Buy In 2022 9. Honey Mesquite Plant Scientifically known as the Prosopis Glandulosa, the Honey Mesquite Plant is native to deserts located in Northern Mexico. Not only can these plants resist droughts, but they can easily survive under conditions that are dry and hot. The best part? Those beautiful yellow flowers and the twisted trunks only add to the aesthetic pop outside your home. The plant is characterised by rough barks and long thorns, both of which help in making these plants the perfect defence hedge for your home. 10. Porcupine Tomato Native to Madagascar, the Porcupine Tomato has a refreshing vibe, especially when it blooms in Summer with that beautiful purple tint. The leaves might fool you with beauty since it’s more like a cover-up for the upright thorns the plants are best known for. The Porcupine Tomato is one of those spiky plants that thrive the best in well-drained soil and sun exposure. You can always plant it inside a container and strategically position the plant in different areas of your garden, creating a sort of surprise for any unwanted visitor. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. Why Are Desert Plants Spiky? The spines and hair on a dessert plant prevent moisture loss by stopping the wind-effects. These can also help by casting little shadows on other plants. Moreover, the shininess of these spiky parts also helps in reflecting away the sun's rays. Q2. What Is The Name Of The Spiky Plant? A popular spiky plant that has been used for decor as a houseplant for several years is the Dracaena plant. Popularly referred to as the Spike Plant, the Dracaena plant is now competing with other varieties of spiky plants. Q3. What Are Lucky Plants? The best lucky plant that you can opt for is the Feng Shui plant. This plant is popular because it is considered lucky in terms of love, fortune, luck and prosperity. The other alternatives to lucky plants are Orchids, Bamboo, Rubber plants, and the like. Wrapping Up: “Home is where the plants are” Now that you have a fair idea of some cool spiky plants names perfect for decorating the outside of your house, what are you waiting for? It’s time to bring in some new, spiky members home. Get yourself a beautifully thorny cactus or some much-needed Bougainvillea for the safety of your property - or opt for any other spiky plant! Don’t forget to let us know in the comments below your thoughts on the same. Read More: 10 Best Tall House Plants To Buy In 2022 Grow these flowering plants in your home garden 5 good luck plants that deserves a place in your home

Exploring The World Of Tile Stores A Comprehensive Guide

If you're on the hunt for the perfect tiles to adorn your living space, you're in for a treat. Tile stores offer a wide range of options, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. In this article, we'll dive deep into the world of tile stores, exploring everything from types of tiles to tips for a successful tile shopping experience. Tiles are versatile and can transform any space with their elegance and functionality. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, or bathroom, or looking to add some flair to your floors, finding the right tiles is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the exciting world of tile stores in barrie, helping you make informed decisions and turn your design dreams into reality. Types of Tiles Whenever we walk into a room, the first thing that we notice is the decor. Tiles are a big part of a room’s decor, and they certainly amp up the overall appeal. If you are thinking of renovating your old house or constructing a new one, consider getting any of these tiles: Ceramic Tiles Ceramic tiles are a popular choice due to their affordability and variety. They come in various colors, sizes, and patterns, making them suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs. Porcelain Tiles Porcelain tiles are known for their durability and low maintenance. They are ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor use, making them a versatile option for homeowners. Natural Stone Tiles Natural stone tiles, such as marble and granite, exude elegance and luxury. They add a timeless charm to any space but require more maintenance to preserve their beauty. Glass Tiles Glass tiles are perfect for creating a modern and vibrant atmosphere. They are commonly used in kitchen backsplashes and bathroom accents, adding a touch of sophistication. Choosing the Right Tile How to know which tile suits your room the best? Simple; just get a quick check. Most online and offline tile stores today offer free design analysis with the help of AI. Just click a picture of your space, throw in a tile of your choice, and see the results. Here are a few additional tips that will help you select the right tile: Consider Your Space Before heading to a tile store, assess the area where you intend to install the tiles. Factors like moisture levels, foot traffic, and the room's style will influence your choice. Durability and Maintenance Consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen tile. Some tiles are easy to clean, while others may require more attention to keep them looking their best. Aesthetics and Style Tiles come in various colors, shapes, and patterns. Think about the overall aesthetics of your space and choose tiles that complement your design vision. Where to Find Tile Stores? Ahh, here comes the most important question. Where to look for optimum stores that have quality tiles for sale. If you are fortunate enough, you might get a local shop nearby. Otherwise, you might have to look online or travel a bit far. Local Retailers Local tile stores provide a hands-on shopping experience, allowing you to see and touch the tiles. They often have knowledgeable staff to guide you through your choices. Online Retailers Online tile stores offer convenience and a vast selection. Be sure to request samples if you choose to shop online to ensure the color and texture meet your expectations. Visiting a Tile Store Nobody wants to visit a store and then become clueless about why they are even here. Make sure that doesn’t happen to you. Hence, visit a tile store only after you are done considering the following things: Setting a Budget Determine your budget before you visit a tile store. Knowing your spending limits will help you narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Without a dedicated budget, things at the tile store might get a bit complex for you! Bringing Samples and Measurements If you have existing colors or materials in your space, bring samples to match the tiles. Additionally, measure the area accurately to purchase the right quantity. Asking Questions Don't hesitate to ask the store staff for assistance. They can provide valuable insights, recommend suitable tiles, and address any concerns you may have. The Art of Tile Installation The journey doesn't end with selecting the perfect tiles. The installation process plays a vital role in the overall outcome. You can choose to DIY or hire professionals, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the project. Maintenance and Cleaning Keeping your tiles in pristine condition is essential for longevity. Learn how to maintain and clean your tiles, ensuring they retain their beauty for years to come. Innovations in Tile Design Discover the latest trends in tile design, from digital printing technology that creates intricate patterns to eco-friendly options that align with sustainability goals. Enhancing Your Home with Tiles Explore how tiles can enhance various areas of your home, from kitchen backsplashes that make a statement to bathroom designs that exude luxury. Customization and Personalization Consider the possibilities of customizing your tiles to add a personal touch to your space. From unique patterns to personalized mosaics, the options are limitless. Budget-Friendly Tile Shopping If you're on a budget, don't worry! We've got tips on finding affordable tiles without compromising on quality. Tile Trends And Caring Stay updated with the latest tile trends, such as geometric patterns, large format tiles, and the fusion of different materials. Learn expert tips on caring for your tiles and dealing with common issues like stains and grout discoloration. Concluding Words Summing it up, tile stores are a haven for those looking to transform their living spaces. From choosing the right type of tile to mastering the art of installation and maintenance, this guide has covered it all. Now, you’re equipped with the knowledge needed to embark on your tile shopping journey with confidence. So, what are you waiting for? Save this article so that you only bring what’s best for your abode! Read Also: The Versatility Of Cream-Colored Rugs: A Must-Have Addition To Any Home Decor How To Downsize Your Home For Retirement Lift Your Home Cooking: Mysteries From HMD Bar And Grill’s Kitchen

9 Things need to Know When Moving to a New Neighborhood

Question 1

Does the neighborhood have sidewalks?

Reason

Question 2

Do you have to take care of taxes and other expenses?

Reason

Question 3

Does the neighborhood have amenities for you and/or your family to indulge in activities?

Reason

Question 4

Does the neighborhood provide you with convenience?

Reason

Question 5

What are your plans for the future?

Reason

Question 6

Is the neighborhood situated in a noisy place or has a bad smell?

Reason

Question 7

What is the crime rate in the neighborhood?

Reason

Question 8

Are they good schools?

Reason

Question 9

What is the neighborhood culture?

Reason

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I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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