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What You Can Learn From the Neighborhood Civic Association

When you are thinking about buying a house, it is a good idea to get to know the neighborhood and your prospective neighbors. The community in which the house is located is as important or even more so than the actual house itself. One of the best ways to learn about the neighborhood is through the neighborhood civic association. Here are some of the things that you can learn by attending meetings or joining the group.

Planned Changes to the Neighborhood

The neighborhood association is often the first place to find out about planned changes to the community. For example, the association meetings might include statements from the public works or transportation department of the community. You might find out about sewer repairs, the installation of new street lamps or the construction of a new bike path this way. The neighborhood association could also inform you about new retailers and restaurants or the closures of facilities in the area. If a large parcel of land is for sale, the association may offer updates about bids or zoning changes that could affect the traffic levels, taxes and more.

Crimes

Crime affects your sense of safety and well-being. At neighborhood association meetings and in any associated online groups, you can find out about recent crimes in the area. The in-person meetings often feature safety updates by neighborhood liaison officers from the police department. The local block watch groups may also report recent activities. You might get updates about registered sex offenders or criminals who have recently been released from jail or prison and returned to the neighborhood. Some of the crimes that might get reported at the association group meetings include vandalism, theft, burglary, breaking and entering, graffiti, assault and more. 

Local Amenities

The neighborhood association can also tell you about the local amenities. If you are new to the area, you might want to know where you can go grocery shopping or where to take your dog for grooming. You can also learn about local restaurants and other small businesses from the neighborhood association. If you need help finding a service, such as someone to do your yard care or someone to walk your dog while you are at work, the neighborhood association is a good resource for getting recommendations and reviews.

Social Activities

You will have a stronger sense of community by getting to know your neighbors and joining the neighborhood association after you buy a home. An easy way to do this is to attend social activities put on by the neighborhood association. Many neighborhoods host free or low-cost events throughout the year. You could find out about the association's family-friendly events, such as Independence Day parades or family craft days at the nearby community center. You could also discover affordable social activities, such as a fundraiser at a restaurant or a swimming class at the area's sports and recreation center.