What kind of neighbors will you have?
Before you buy a home, be sure to find out what kind of neighbors you are going to have… In short, what kind of situation are you most likely to get yourself into.
Zero lot lines or not, you will have neighbors. Picking the right home next to the right neighbor is critical to your health, wealth and sanity.
The following contains a short list of suggested realities (or not) you should try to determine prior to committing to any sales contract.
Noise factor
Do the neighbors have kids and pets that could predictably add a noise factor to your desired location? Understandably, children and pets are not a deal breaker; however, being aware of what is nearby could sway your decision one way or the other – especially if there is a comparable property nearby that is equally suited to your taste. Another thing to look for is adjacent homes with motorcycles in the garage. Again, the existence of motorcycles in and of themselves does not warrant paranoia, but it may be a consideration of the level of noise to expect. One other noise consideration could be the presence of major roadways and/or construction underway for any number of reasons.
Surrounding landscape
Adding to the determination of the “noise factor” is the current layout of landscape trees and tall bushes. Of course, well-placed landscape accents are a great way to minimize noise and provide a greater degree of privacy. However, do the existing trees and plants require neglected maintenance (i.e. trees that have impinged on overhead wires or those that hang well over into a neighboring yard). Pruning large trees by yourself is likely feasible. Removing such nuisances is probably not. The cost to remove trees is no laughing matter – in time, money and, perhaps even, accessibility. Do your homework by visiting nearby homes and searching for potential problems on sites such as Google earth.
Degree of privacy
Another important consideration in purchasing a home is the amount of privacy the property line offers. Is the neighboring physically home above the one you are looking to purchase? If so, will the selected home you wish to own have enough privacy from possible lie-of-sight eyes from above. Perhaps, even more important – since most homes are on relatively level, adjacent lots – is the general condition of the perimeter fencing of the home you desire. Is the fencing well supported by weather-treated posts or, conversely, is the fence seen “better days” and in need of dire repair. Though a problematic fence is not deal breaker per se, the cost of repairing and/or replacing fencing should certainly be added into (deducted) from the offer amount you tender.
Pets and their vocal cords
One last consideration about the current state of the fencing surrounding your chosen listing is the existence (or not) of a neighboring pet. Again, not a deal breaker at face value… But, are you going to be comfortable with neighbors who have a large dog with the inherent ability to make loud barking noises? Or similarly, a small dog that me be quite capable of making shrill yips and all hours of the day and night. Bottom line, try your best to determine if the neighboring homeowner is a responsible pet owner – and importantly, the pet is not neglected and feels compelled to loudly announce its displeasure at any juncture. Well behaved animals are a pleasure to behold – especially when they can be become additional security measures when you are away.
Reasonable amount of vehicles
The reality of modern neighborhoods – especially in California – is parking is at a premium in congested area. Take a look at the home you intend to make an offer on at multiple times throughout the day (before work and after, and on the weekends) to get an accurate picture of the number of vehicles parked nearby. Are the neighbors reasonable with the number and placement of vehicles or does it appear that they are owners of a used car lot with older cars parked all around? This potential reality is far more problematic if your desired listing is located in a court with limited parking areas. Certainly the other fact to note is whether or not the cars by and large are in working order. Broken down (project) vehicles are a nuisance and seldom see completion; as opposed to well-intended renovations of classic vehicles that are usually garaged and well cared for. Of course, the same applies to “toys” big and small such as boats, trailers and other outdoor travel items like RVs.