Locking in on a neighborhood tips

[Shane M]

How long would you say it takes to really become familiar with an area. What size of an area should you start out with?

I'm looking at a fairly large neighborhood with at least 100 houses, I am trying to document the transactions, become familiar with the feel of the area, etc. It is within 10 minutes of where I live.

Does anyone have a rating system for the quality of a neighborhood, its potential or how far low it will go? I'm thinking obvious factors: employment, income levels, etc. But how big of an impact would something like an elementary school play? Can you be too close? Do they at least guarantee some level of residency?

Thanks!