From an idea on another thread, I thought we could compile a list of tips and tricks for new and prospective expats to help ensure that they're buying/building in an area that is as safe as possible.
I posted these few notes and here they are again, a little cleaned up .. please add ..
Area (gated or non-gated) - who lives there?
Chat with the neighbors. Is there a community that you can slot into? Is the community helpful. Find out how many burglaries/break-ins attempted or successful over the past year (if any). Verify every piece of information.
Physical Protection of the Home - what and how is the physical protection to the home installed? What does the 'iron' look like. Through the wall, properly installed or simply for decoration. If you are alone in your home and something happens, will you feel safe? Does the home give adequate protection so that it is really difficult for anyone else to get in?
Nearby communties - middle class or upper middle class people? or bad barrio?
How do you get to your house? - through decent space, or do you have to run a gauntlet of some kind. Check out the approaches to the house. Areas where burglars can hide and scope out the scene?
I posted these few notes and here they are again, a little cleaned up .. please add ..
Area (gated or non-gated) - who lives there?
Chat with the neighbors. Is there a community that you can slot into? Is the community helpful. Find out how many burglaries/break-ins attempted or successful over the past year (if any). Verify every piece of information.
Physical Protection of the Home - what and how is the physical protection to the home installed? What does the 'iron' look like. Through the wall, properly installed or simply for decoration. If you are alone in your home and something happens, will you feel safe? Does the home give adequate protection so that it is really difficult for anyone else to get in?
Nearby communties - middle class or upper middle class people? or bad barrio?
How do you get to your house? - through decent space, or do you have to run a gauntlet of some kind. Check out the approaches to the house. Areas where burglars can hide and scope out the scene?