What makes a neighborhood bad vs good?

[Sharad M.]

I read some topics in the last couple of days talking about buying in lower income neighborhood. I am a little confused. What makes an area a war zone? It is strictly the crime rate in the area or does the average income also determine that?

Before I buy any property, I call the local police department and speak with someone to get more information on the neighborhood. I have decided to not move forward on couple of really appealing deals because the person I spoke with from the police dept told me not to. He said he wouldn't invest in that area if he had money to invest.

Basically, aside from talking to local police department and other investors in the area, what else should I be doing to make sure I am buying in a decent neighborhood. I am also in constant touch with local city Planning and Development Dept (mainly to confirm the zoning for the property). Any ideas will be much appreciated.