When you start shopping for a home, especially when you are new to the area, it seems natural to ask your Realtor if it is an area that is “safe,” school information, information about the neighborhood and neighbors and so on. Many clients however do not realize that Realtors have to be very careful in handing out such information due to the Fair Housing Act to avoid allegations of steering. So while we might be able to give you school information, we cannot tell you the average size of families in the neighborhood. Information about crime seems to be another sensitive topic.

So where does a person go for such information? Here are a few resources. You can go to a title company and request neighborhood information. Chances are however they might be bound by similar rules. Online resources are best. If searching in the Sacramento area, go to Sacramento Bee’s community information page under “Homes.” For other areas, you can search their local newspapers or even go to City Data.

Personally, I find City Data quite fascinating, with their average temperatures and most common professions amongst residents. Especially when it comes to relocation, it helps to get a general idea of the place as well as the residents!

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