One very important step in buying a home is completing a neighborhood feasibility study. This is often taken lightly or even overlooked by emotional buyers. As a Realtor, I view this study as a very important step in your buying process. What is your commute going to be? Is this the right school district for your children? Are there any registered sex offenders in the neighborhood? What is the crime rate? What is the neighborhood's proximity to your church, family or friends? These are just a few of the important questions you should have answered before you buy your home. So, how do you get the answers? The first step is to make sure you buy your home with the professional assistance of a good Realtor. They can help you with information and leads that will answer many of your questions. Take some time, do some research and get the answers before making your purchase decision. Here some links to help you get started:

Registered sex offenders links:

WASPC: Washington State Sex Offender Information Center

Washington Public Records

Snohomish County Sheriff

Family Watchdog

School districts:

Superintendent of Public Instruction