How to judge neighborhood quailty

[Josh Coup]

I'm a newbie out of the KC area. I'm looking to land my first deal within the next year. I originally had MLS set up to send me properties in closer proximity to my residence, which is Overland Park. Well, most of Johnson County, KS would probably be rated B areas at the worst. And the prices reflect this. I'm now changing my search to lesser rated areas of the KC metro. My question is: Is there an objective way to measure the quality of a neighborhood? I'm not looking to invest in "war zones" as they are put. Or is it pretty much subjective? Eventually I'd like to also invest out of state where I'd have no familiarity with different areas' nuances.

Thanks,

Josh

[Amanda Wirch]

You can generally look up crime maps in a town/neighborhood to get a feel for the "types" of crime (i.e. violent offenses verses petty theft).  I like to check those out, plus I look at what types of businesses the area supports or attracts, government work or money being invested into the area, check out neighborhood chat boards or facebook groups and find out what everyone's complaints/concerns are, and if possible, I walk the area myself.  An area with an outflow of older families/retirees and an inflow of young families always interests me, areas that the city is trying to revamp interest me, and areas bringing in more local or boutique style shops ALWAYS interests me...particularly in smaller markets.  

I would take yourself and your own expertise into consideration.  Do you know knowledge of a particular industry/large area company?  Do you have a niche market you would like to attract?  (ie. young families, young professionals, pet owners, millennials...ect.)  What areas of town do you foresee good things for in the next 10 years?  Have you done your research to back that hunch up?  Use your own "insider" information!