How to Not Live in a Crime Zone; Crime Statistics Resources

If you are looking to buy, or just want to check in to see if your neighborhood is safe and secure for your family, here is how to do it.

If you are working with an agent, real estate agents cannot legally answer your questions about whether a neighborhood is safe. However, you can do your own crime statistics research.

1. Visit websites like Next Door, Neighbors (by Ring), and Spot Crime that give the types of crimes, dates, and the address/locations. No commentary.

2. Contact the Community Interaction Officer or Crime Prevention Officer at the local police department for crime statistics, feedback about specific neighborhoods, and types of crimes.

3. Drive through the prospective neighborhood at different times and on different days to observe the area. Are there neighborhood watch signs, are the homes well cared for, etc.?

Is your neighborhood active and involved? Do you know your neighbors? Are you able to contact them (or vice versa) if you see suspicious behavior? Do you know who belongs in each house?

4. Talk to several neighbors about living in the neighborhood to get first-hand information about the crime.

Even if you live there, you may not hear about crimes if you aren’t connected to your neighbors.

Problem solved. You have the power.

You can decide based on factual information and police data whether or not to purchase a home where your family will feel safe or decide what the crime risks and issues are in your neighborhood.

Crime statistics are factual data that can help you make an informed decision regarding the safety and security of your family in a specific neighborhood.

Let me know which resources you use.

Stay safe!