Over several weeks, I have had a few calls from people who live out of state asking various questions about the demographics, area makeup and characteristics of certain towns.
They were seniors, who were new to Long Island and weren’t computer literate; so finding out information was a bit challenging and they didn’t even have email.
The first thing I had to determine was the specifics of their request, by asking them questions and they telling me what was important to them.
They wanted to know about the cultural makeup of the areas, population, houses of worship, proximity to shopping, restaurants, transportation, (since they no longer had a car)?
Another question was what events and thing were available in and around the area? What a town has to offer will draw people with similar interests, whether they be a younger or older couple or single.
Whatever your living requirements might be, whether it be in a home, condo, co-op or rental, everyone has a different lifestyle environment they will be searching for.
The more “free” things one can participate in a town, the more advantageous the draw will be, especially if you are retired or on a limited budget.
Many towns within our area have excellent free concerts during the summer months at their parks, where you can bring your dinner and a blanket and enjoy the entertainment.
Many locations also have their own pool complexes at very reasonable prices and with various activities throughout the summer months (some have ice skating in the fall/winter).
Maybe living nearer a beach is more your thing. Yes, I know, you are thinking about the hurricane season we are in; but then again, people know the risks of being near the water and deal with it the best they can.
No one can control nature, but you can enjoy it while it’s nice to us!
There are a number of towns that have built or renovated their libraries over the last few years, which also may be important to those who still like going there to sit and read books and magazines or browse the internet.
As I have mentioned in previous articles that schools are an important facet and have a major impact for families who have children that want a quality education.
However, for those who are single or empty-nesters and have downsized but want to make sure when they are ready to sell that their values have increased or held strong and stable, the school district can have an impact in relation to prices, so don’t disregard this fact, when searching out a place to live. (My saying, “location, location, school district.”)
Safety is also important to everyone, whether young or old.
Crime statistics can be found online or you can call or visit your local police department to inquire and receive the necessary information.
It appears that in most areas on Long Island general crime has dissipated over the last few years. It’s logical that the safer the area, the better the values of local real estate.
However, there are towns in Long Island, that have had very serious crime issues where prices and sales have been impacted.
The socialization of society has drastically changed and we don’t communicate the same way as we used to, because today everyone is so tied to their devices and we just don’t talk, but text.
However, the more a town can get people to come out and enjoy the entertainment they offer, I think and believe the healthier the town is. The fact that everything is online or on T.V., we no longer have to go to the movies; so many have closed, leaving a town with one less reason for people to come out and mingle.
Shopping, restaurants and night-life might be important for those who have an active life style and enjoy getting out. Proximity or even living in NYC, may be an important consideration where you can find and do almost anything you can think of. Obviously, the cost of residing there can be very expensive, but for those who can afford it, there is nothing like “The Big Apple” with concerts, Central Park events in the summer, museums, Broadway shows, the huge variety of restaurants and food venues. Pretty much maintenance free living (no shoveling, painting, gardening, etc.). Lastly, no car needed, eliminating car payments, insurance, gas, maintenance, since transportation is more than adequate, although, sometimes, you might have to wait for subways.
Make a list of those “qualities of life” you are looking for in a town and your specific budget to purchase or rent and then do your research; it will be worth it in the long run.
Phil Raices is the owner/broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 7 Bond St. in Great Neck. He has earned designations as a Graduate Realtor Institute and Certified International Property Specialist.
He can be reached by email: Phil@TurnkeyRealEstate.Com or by cell (516) 647-4289 to answer any of your questions or article suggestions.
