- One of the best ways to tune into the daily rhythms of a new community is to subscribe to its local newspaper. Not the big metro dailies, but the tiny, community-based publications. You may be able to get subscriptions by mail or, even better, follow the publication online. These papers report the issues that are important to their community such as changes to school boundaries and tax rates, new store openings, the controversy over a new sewer system, and police blotters.
- The internet contains a plethora of information. You just have to know where to look. RELO is a network of independent real estate companies around the US and abroad. They can link you to a referral specialist through their website, www.relo.com. The message boards on www.craigslist.org are another great source of inside info on a community.
There are some things that you need to keep in mind while doing the research. In addition to becoming accustomed to the way the locals in that area go about their lives, you may encounter important differences peculiar to real estate. It is important to find a top-notch local real estate agent who can guide you through the process. A good way to find one is by word of mouth. Ask locals who they recommend. Make sure you compare all taxes. State and local income taxes may be different from those back home. One last thing, when touring with your agent around the various neighborhoods, be sure to at least take a look at the areas the agent left off of the tour. you owe it to yourself to have a good idea of your surrounding areas if you plan on living there.
