Signs of a Neighborhood on the Rise

A neighborhood on the rise offers things you definitely want: a great space at a good price, and the promise of improvement (and rising home equity). But how do you know when a neighborhood is getting ready to take off? There a few signs to look for that can steer you to the next hot zip code. (Remember, Brooklyn was once considered highly undesirable!)

It’s near another hot spot
Location, location, location! If you can’t afford the prices in the currently desirable metro area, then look at the neighborhoods adjoining. It’s likely the amenities you’ll find there will be creeping into the adjoining neighborhoods, and yours could be next.

You can get there from here
Excellent public transportation and freeway access generally mean young people moving in, which in turn leads to …

Independent business and trendy shops popping up
A young demographic in a neighborhood generally attracts bars and restaurants that are chasing millennial dollars. Look for store and restaurant trends that you’ll find in the already hot neighborhoods — farm-to-fork, wine bars, even vape bars. And of course an uptick in the number of hardware and home improvement stores is always a good sign.

Upscale chain stores are also encroaching
These businesses spend a lot of money tracking demographics and conducting market research before they begin to move into an area. Let them do some of the groundwork for you. Stores catering to a higher income clientele, such as Trader Joes, Whole Foods, and of course Starbucks are the ones to watch.

Homes are selling faster and faster in the area
If you notice a lot of houses undergoing renovations or new home construction, and more For Sale signs, it’s time to ask your real estate agent the average time a home in that area spends on the market. As the number of days on the market declines, the housing market in the area will be heating up. If you can get in at the beginning of this trend, you’ll probably get a great price on your new property.

Crime rates are declining
Rising crime is an obvious indication that a neighborhood is going south, so it makes sense that a declining crime rate is a sign of gentrification and growth. If you see an area where a city is starting to pour in money, it’s a good bet it thinks the place is worth the attention. Improving school scores and a property tax that’s staying stable are also signs to look for.

Looking for a neighborhood on the rise is always taking a chance. There’s no guarantee you’ll be getting in on the next most desirable place to live in your area. But by looking at the signs listed above — and having a great real estate agent who knows the area and can offer guidance — you could be getting a great place for a much lower price.