Virginia has long been one of the most popular states for people looking for a new home in the US. It’s commonly called the ‘State for Lovers’ – lovers of nature, family-friendly lifestyle, history, and more. People move here for its economic stability, affordability, and geographical position. Virginia is a state of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and many things to do, so it’s widely recognized as a great place to settle with your family. One of the towns that stand out in the crowd is Fredericksburg, a small place with a population of about 30,000. However, the number of people living in this town is rapidly growing, and there are several reasons for it. A solid economy, job market, affordable homes, and proximity to Washington and Baltimore attract people from around the country. That’s why it’s no surprise if you feel like this may be the location for your next home. It’s just left to find a great home in an area of the city that suits your lifestyle and needs. And this guide will help you do that – here are some tips for choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg and making it your new home.
Why Fredericksburg should be the place to look for a home
With a couple of big cities nearby, many people are easily drawn to Richmond, Baltimore, or even Washington to be their next home. However, there are a few reasons why you should pick a smaller town and start house-hunting over there. The small-town feel comes with a rich history, many craft breweries, amazing food, and a friendly community. The place makes it easy to settle down, especially if you’re moving with your little ones. You can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and safety of a small town while still being less than an hour’s drive away from a bigger place such as Richmond.
People of Fredericksburg enjoy a great commuting system downtown with many restaurants and stores and a couple of beautiful parks – Kenmore Park, Alu Springs Park, Old Mill Park, and more. Overall, Fredericksburg is a great place to live, so let’s see how you can pick the right neighborhood for your new home.
Tips for choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg
Even though it’s a relatively small city, Fredericksburg has a lot to offer. There are a couple of great neighborhoods with quite distinct features, so it’s important to know how to choose the one that will make a great home for your family.
- Evaluate your needs first
To be able to make the right choice, you need to know what you are looking for. Depending on your lifestyle, you might be looking for a place that’s more or less busy or family-friendly. For example, Downtown Fredericksburg is perfect for people who like city life and have everything they need within walking distance. On the other hand, Falmouth will give you a more peaceful vibe and separate your home from all the hustle and bustle of the downtown. Consider your plans for the future as well as your lifestyle to be able to choose the right place to live.
- Consider your budget
Not all neighborhoods come with the same price. Consider your budget before you start looking for homes. Most expensive homes are usually located in Downtown Fredericksburg or Plank Road-Route 3 area, whereas Dixon Street-Mayfield can offer affordable homes in the Fredericksburg market.
- Proximity to the necessary amenities
Some families don’t want to be away from their favorite restaurant, their kids’ school, or the local hospital. If there are locations in the city you need to be close to, look for neighborhoods in that area. Sometimes, location is the top priority for certain families, and they are willing to pay more for a convenient area of a city.
- Safety
Unfortunately, every city comes with neighborhoods that have lower or higher crime rates. Moving with your family makes safety one of your top priorities. Neighborhoods with the lowest crime rates in Fredericksburg are Highland homes, Stafford Lakes Village, Bel Plains Estates, etc. A safe neighborhood is well-lit at night, with walkable streets, friendly neighbors, and low crime rates, so be sure to investigate the neighborhoods you like before you start looking at homes in that area.
Remember: safety should you a top priority in the moving process, too. Make sure you hire reliable experts in the area for your local move to ensure a secure transfer of your items. Do research on trustworthy local moving teams and minimize the chances of dealing with fraud.
- Old or new buildings in a neighborhood
Another factor that can shape your decision is the period most properties were made. Neighborhoods with mostly older homes will probably come with a lower price but also a high risk of repairs. On the other hand, newer properties are less likely to be renovated, which is why they are often more expensive.
- Noise and traffic
If you’re moving with kids, this is one of the factors that might make you change your mind about a neighborhood. A quiet street with a wide sidewalk is perfect for families with kids. Less traffic makes the neighborhood safer for kids to play and ride bikes. And if there’s a great school nearby – it’s undoubtedly a place to look for a home. Furthermore, a quiet neighborhood is more convenient for people who work from home, as they need a more peaceful environment for their home office.
- Visit the neighborhoods you like for the best impression
There are many things you can check online or by asking around. However, the best method of choosing the right neighborhood in Fredericksburg is going and taking a look by yourself. Visit the areas you like and see how you feel walking those streets. You can explore local amenities, talk to neighbors and see if you really feel the place you visited can be your new home. And one thing is for sure – Fredericksburg will welcome you with open arms!
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