When considering where to build or buy a home, consider contacting the law enforcement agency that has jursidiction in the area and ask what the crime history is for that neighborhood. Most agencies tabulate crime by geographic area (districts, zones, sectors, sections or something similar), and would be able to provide this as public information.

Drive through the area to assess general conditions. Ascertain whether potential neighbors are owners of their homes or renters. While renters aren't necessarily negative neighbors in any way, owners just naturally have a more parochial interest in maintaining their own property in prime condition, and will tend to be more involved in neighborhood affairs. Determine whether the area is generally clean, graffiti-free, with the homes in good repair. Remember to check during night hours to assess street lighting, area lighting, and the lighting on and around your residence. Make sure to notice whether street locator signs are in place as you approach.