Offer on house accepted (finally!) but potentially tricky neighbours. What to do?!?

ameciar

Hi all

After a long search we have finally had an offer accepted on a semi-detached house. It is at the top of our budget but ticks a lot of boxes for our family (schools, parks, amenities), so we are generally very happy with it.

It is in a middle-class, sub-urban area and generally the houses in the street are in very good condition. However, one of the houses right next door is run down with permanently covered windows. We assumed that it was empty or that old people were living there. After further investigation, it turns out that it is a family with young children, whose appearance and lifestyle are very different from the rest of the people living on the street. Apparently they own the house and are set to stay.

We have asked some of the residents about them and reactions ranged from barely concealed frowns to suggestions that they display some low-level anti-social behaviour (swearing/drinking) but are essentially harmless.

This leaves us in a tricky position. We like the house and its location (and are sick of house hunting)! On the other hand, we have concerns relating to the neighbours. First, they may be trouble now, and even if they are not, they may become trouble in the future (e.g. as their kids grow up to be teenagers). Second, we are hoping that this will be a “forever” home for us, but if it is not, we are worried that the neighbours may make it difficult to sell the house in the future.

What should we do? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Deleted User]

What's the turnover of houses in the immediate vicinity?

theartfullodger

Buy neighbours house also 

LittleMax

It sounds as though you have knocked on doors and spoken to neighbours, which is a good thing to do.  But you haven't knocked on the door of the house in question.  I would introduce myself as possibly going to buy the house next door and ask them how they find the neighbourhood etc.  Exactly as you have done with the other neighbours.  Then you can asess for yourself and make a slightly more informed decision.  

propertyhunter

I'd find out more information before really making a decision. Have the direct neighbours reported them to the police because of their behaviour? Do the neighbours feel threatened? Or do they feel that they are uncouth?  Can you check local police crime logs and get a better sense of things?

steve866

I would think having a rundown house next door would affect the potential value, especially in the long run in a less hot market. Do you think it’s already been factored in? You said it was at the top of your budget, perhaps you wouldn’t be able to afford it if it was next to a well maintained house. 

jonnydeppiwish!

I personally wouldn’t be so judgemental on the situation and neighbours.
just because others may have said something, it doesn’t mean that they’re different from everyone else.

Remember that a lot will be in the ‘keeping up with the Jones’ brigade, especially in that type of area.

Knock on  the door with some cake and a big smile - ask them about the street and the neighbours.

csgohan4

if the neighbors say F and Off, you have your answer

Lyd00

Kids growing up to become teenagers in our area has been a big problem and has made me want to leave. Definitely try and suss them out a bit more, especially if you want it to be your forever home 

Skiddaw1

I agree- more investigation needed (especially if this is the house attached to yours- not sure from the original post?) I think it's certainly worth passing by at different times of day/weekends/evenings, etc, even if you don't actively call on them.

Grumpelstiltskin

Windows permanently covered would make me think Cannabis Factory.

No distinctive smells?