How To Find A Quiet Home In The City
Posted on: 26 July 2022
Many people consider urban neighborhoods noisier than suburban or rural neighborhoods, and the consideration is usually true. However, you can find a relatively quiet home in the city center if you know what to look for and where to look for it. Below are some tips to help you.
Consider Nearby Infrastructures
Neighborhood infrastructure plays a significant role in noise generation. Here are some things that tend to generate noise:
- Ongoing construction
- Transportation hubs or networks, such as highways and airports
- Religious institutions
- Educational institutions
- Police and fire stations
Evaluate the neighborhoods and their respective infrastructures to help you choose a quiet area.
Visit the Target Neighborhood at Different Times of the Day
Neighborhood noises tend to vary by the time of day in many places. For example, some places are relatively quiet during the day but noisy in the evening. The day of the week also matters; some places are quieter on the weekends than on weekdays. Visit your target neighborhood at different times and days of the week to get an accurate idea of its noises.
Consider the Number and Proximity of Neighbors
Apart from noises from nearby infrastructure, noises from neighboring houses can also reach your house's interior. The more neighbors you have, the higher the risk of their noises reaching you.
The location and proximity of neighbors also matter. For example, noises from neighbors are more likely to reach in a crowded apartment complex than in townhouses or standalone houses. The difference is even more significant if you have apartments below and above your unit.
Consider the Noise Policy
If your target home is part of a homeowners' association (HOA), then the HOA's noise policy can also guide you on what to expect. For example, some HOAs have strict noise policies that specify the decibel noise levels that each homeowner must not exceed. The HOA may even specify noise levels at different times of the day. Many property owners also have useful noise policies.
Evaluate the Design and Construction
Lastly, a home's design and construction also determine how much exterior noise gets inside. For example, acoustic foam and tiles block outside noises. Properly sealed doors and windows also help to block noise. The windows' orientation also matters. For example, windows that face busy streets might let in more noise than other windows.
Consult a realtor to help you locate your dream home in the city. Tell the realtor your needs and wants in order of priority so they can find a home that ticks the important points on your list.
Contact a local real estate company, such as Spencer Real Estate, to learn more.
Share