Resources to Lean on When Buying a Home: School Report Cards, Crime Maps, Local News, and Census Information

Hey Friends!

It's your favorite REALTOR back with all the resources you should use when purchasing a home! As an experienced agent in Union County, serving Mecklenburg, Anson, Stanly, and Cabarrus Counties - I'm here to help guide you through the process from start to finish.

Amanda Evans, 770.653.7370

Buying a home is one of the most significant decisions you’ll ever make, and choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as selecting the perfect property. To make a well-informed choice, you’ll want to understand not just the house itself but also the surrounding community. Resources such as school report cards, crime maps, local news, and census data can give you valuable insights into the area you’re considering. It’s important to utilize these resources responsibly and in compliance with Fair Housing laws to ensure you make a decision based on objective, relevant information.

As an experienced real estate professional, I am dedicated to helping you navigate the home buying process with confidence and ease. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking for land in Union, Stanly, or Anson Counties, I bring local market knowledge, personalized guidance, and a commitment to making your experience as smooth as possible. From recommending trusted lenders to providing insights into neighborhood resources, I’m here to support you every step of the way. My goal is to ensure you find a home or property that not only meets your needs but also aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals. With my expertise and dedication, you can rest assured that your home-buying journey will be informed, efficient, and successful.

1. School Report Cards

If you have children or plan to in the future, you’ll likely want to consider the quality of local schools. While evaluating schools, it’s essential to focus on the educational programs, academic achievement, and overall learning environment, not demographic characteristics of the student population. In North Carolina, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) publishes annual school report cards, which provide performance data on student achievement, school programs, and test scores. Websites like GreatSchools and SchoolDigger can also offer valuable insights into academic ratings without discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Use these resources to make decisions based on educational quality, not based on the makeup of the student body.

2. Crime Maps

Safety is a priority for many homebuyers, but it's important to approach crime data carefully. Crime maps, available from sources like CrimeReports, RaidsOnline, and local police department websites, offer insight into crime activity and patterns in specific neighborhoods. When using crime data, be sure to evaluate the information objectively, focusing on the types of crimes and trends rather than assumptions about people or neighborhoods. Fair Housing laws protect against discrimination, so avoid making assumptions based on crime reports that could lead to unfair treatment of individuals in those areas.

3. Local News

Staying informed about local news helps you understand what's happening in the area. Local news outlets, including websites like Patch and regional news channels, report on everything from local events to city council meetings and community developments. It's important to use local news to assess the broader trends and events shaping the area, without making assumptions about residents based on these reports. When gathering news, make sure you're not relying on biased or discriminatory sources that might skew your perception of a particular community.

4. Census Information

Census data is an excellent resource for understanding the demographic makeup, economic stability, and growth potential of a neighborhood. The U.S. Census Bureau provides detailed data on population size, income levels, employment statistics, and housing trends. This information is important when assessing an area’s long-term stability and suitability for your needs. It’s vital, however, to use census data to inform decisions based on objective factors like population growth, median income, and housing values—not on discriminatory factors like race or ethnicity. Always keep in mind that Fair Housing laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, or national origin.

5. Local Government and Community Resources

Local government websites and community organizations can provide essential information about zoning laws, property taxes, public services, and future development. These resources offer insight into the practical aspects of living in a particular area, including transportation, parks, and utilities. It’s crucial to focus on the services and infrastructure available in the area without considering protected characteristics of the population. Avoid using these resources in a way that could lead to discrimination or exclusion.

6. Real Estate Agent Insights

A qualified real estate agent familiar with the local market is one of the best resources when researching a neighborhood. They can provide insights into the local market, amenities, and trends. When working with an agent, be sure to discuss your preferences based on your lifestyle and financial goals, rather than based on the demographic makeup of the area. Real estate agents must follow Fair Housing regulations and provide information based on objective, factual data.

7. Social Media and Online Community Groups

Online platforms like Nextdoor, Facebook Groups, and Reddit allow you to connect with local residents and gather firsthand insights about life in a specific area. While social media is a valuable resource for learning about a community, it’s important to engage with these platforms respectfully and responsibly. When participating in local online groups, avoid using or interpreting information in a way that could reinforce discriminatory views or stereotypes. These platforms should be used to connect with neighbors and learn about the community, not to make decisions based on race, religion, or other protected characteristics.

Conclusion

When buying a home, using resources such as school report cards, crime maps, local news, and census data can help you make an informed, fair decision about the area you’re considering. It’s important to approach these resources with an open mind, focusing on the factors that directly impact your lifestyle and future plans. Always be aware of Fair Housing laws and ensure your research and decision-making process is free from discrimination. By doing so, you can make an informed decision about your new home and its community, while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Amanda Evans

Broker & REALTOR®

Central Carolina Real Estate Group

770.653.7370