Common Neighborhood Questions
Arvada
Being a Realtor you often get asked about the merits of a neighborhood. The question is asked in innocence by the buyer but the answer can lead to the agent violating Fair Housing Law. This is of great frustration to many agents, who want to give their helpful opinion and are somewhat restricted, albeit for a valid reason. To avoid violating Fair Housing and still offer valuable insight there are many resources an agent can provide their clients with. Let us take the area of Arvada, CO.
Below are the most common neighborhood questions I get from buyers:
Q1. Statistics – Jerry, whats the market like in Arvada?
Median house price – $500,000. Up nearly $70k compared to Dec 2019. Expected to continue to rise in 2021.
Percentage over list price – 1% Highest in over four years. Expect to pay a little more than the list price to win. Of course the merits of every home need to be evaluated.
Average days on market – 5-7 days. You have under a week to see the home, submit offer and get acceptance. Generally, we are seeing this happen in 2-3 days on attractive homes. Speed matters.
Months of Supply – 3-5 weeks of inventory!! A balanced market is 4-6 months of inventory!!
*data as of January 4th, 2021
Q2. Crime – Jerry, how is the crime in Arvada?
The is one of the most common neighborhood questions. Every area has some element of crime and everyone’s tolerance for it can differ. I would recommend you check the following resources so you can determine for yourself if this neighborhood is suitable based on facts rather than my opinion.
https://www.city-data.com/crime/crime-Arvada-Colorado.html
https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/co/arvada/crime
Q3. Schools – What are the schools like around here?
I understand school scores are important but there is more to a successful school system then the scores. The culture of the school, school programs, PTA and teachers play a massive role. You may have a great teacher in a low scoring school and likewise a terrible teacher in a high scoring school. Where possible, check their online presence, ask parents who go to that school and/or arrange a visit to the school.
https://arvada.org/city-hall/our-community/history-of-arvada-s-schools
https://www.schooldigger.com/go/CO/schoolrank.aspx
Q4. Amenities
There is no shortage of things to do in Arvada and around it. They include skateparks, trails, wineries, breweries, museums, parks, historic downtown, fishing, golf, GYMs, Cinema, bowling and more!!
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g29140-Activities-Arvada_Colorado.html
Q5. Commute Time
Depends where you are going and at what time. If this neighborhood is of serious consideration the best thing you can do is drive the route at the time you are likely to drive it. This is likely the largest financial investment of your life so get in the car and do the drive!! You do not want a horrendous commute for the next 30 years!! One of the mapping provides will also provide a reasonable estimate of commute time.
My Favorite Arvada Spots
House of JS Coffee – Friendly staff and I love their Iced Mocha and weekly drink specials!!
El Tequileno – A family favorite with great Margaritas, large portions and wonderful Mexican food
Das Meyer – from cookies to wedding cakes, this bakery is delicious!!
School House – A great spot in Downtown Arvada. Get the Monte Cristo, what a sandwich!!
Got questions about Arvada or another neighborhood? Just ask, I don’t bite!!
