If you’re looking to move and hunting for a place to live, you may utilize the services of a real estate agent to help you find the right place. When searching for a home, you’ll ask about price, condition and other aspects of the property. However, you may want to ask some other questions to ensure you choose the best place.

Who Are the Top Employers in the Area?

Your real estate agent will know more than just facts and figures about the homes for sale. You can ask them about the jobs which are available in the area as well. An agent will know what industries are located nearby and which employers offer the best job potential. They may even have contacts at some of those places to help you gain an interview or at least a phone call. A prime example is in Tippecanoe County where Caterpillar and Unity Health Care are two of the top employers for the area. If you were to ask a real estate broker, such as those connected with Coldwell Banker Shook, in that area, they’d be able to tell you just that.

Is the Community Growing?

The value of any home you purchase is directly related to the growth of a community. If a neighborhood is up-and-coming, more people will be interested in moving to the location, which means more buyers for your home in the future. For instance, you can find out if the county has grown in the last few years or if more people are moving to the nearby suburbs than in previous years. This information will help you determine if your home is a solid investment for the future.

How Are the Crime Rates?

You can ask your real estate agent about the safety of any area where you plan to move. They can offer information about crime in your area and even access statistics about the types of crime which are most prevalent. While you can find out some of this information online, your agent will be able to tell you more than just the facts. They are usually quite familiar with an area and can tell you which streets are safe to walk along at night.

What Are the Demographics for the Neighborhood?

Your real estate agent will be able to tell you if a subdivision or neighborhood is made up of families, young professionals, seniors or a combination of people. You’ll be more likely to enjoy living in a community with others who are similar in age and lifestyle. Your agent can point you in the right direction for areas which are best suited to your needs.

Rely on your real estate agent for a variety of information when you’re searching for a home. They know these areas well, and they can direct you to the perfect home. Don’t hesitate to ask some unusual questions to ensure you make the right decision.

Author's Bio: 

Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake.