This is one feature we fail to take notice of while buying a house.I feel that it is one of the most important factors for the choice a good house.

I totally agree that neighbourhood is a very important factor in choice of a home - the state of the neighbourhood will definitely have a impact on the quality of life not to mention the financial implications.

I totally agree with you here. Think about it. This is where you are going to LIVE, and probably for a long time...so yeah, you better be checking out the neighborhood! Find out how much crime goes on in the area, and if there is a neighborhood watch. And if you have children, (or even if you don't), find out if there are any sexual predators listed in the area. That one is very important. You may also want to check out which schools your kids will be attending.

I guess any sensible home buyer will check out the current neighbourhood situation and act accordingly.  The real uncertainty is what the future holds - a new subway station, re-zoning or what.  So a prospective buyer not only have to research the present but try to find out the building and developments as far into the future as possible.

To check out with the neighborhood and the basic facilities the best possible way is that one actually rents a house in the vicinity and stays there for a few weeks.

With four children, that's the first thing I look at. We viewed several homes so far and I will not even look at one that is in a poor or "rough" neighborhood. My kids safety and surroundings are my #1 interest.

CHeck the ratings online for that particular school district it helps with the area to choose I did that and I scoped out the prospected home with family members and at night during the day I spoke to some neighbors and all.

My opinion on this one is:
if you move to another neighborhood in your town, you already now that area. If you are changing towns...that's another story. I don't think that you can trust anyone far enough to listen to their advices...

Yep,

 

you need to check it out for yourself and one 'drive by' is not enough to get a feel, it will take repeated visits to make sure you are comfortable

 

I think the neighborhood where you buy a house is very important, espcially when there is young children to consider. Like my sister I would want her to grow up in a friendly atmosphere, not too live next door to thugs or anything (no offense).

Definitely the neighbourhood is a major consideration for all people with different needs and circumstances.  The trick is to consider the relevant factors to tailor to individual's situations.