Choose the Right Community for Your Family
The most important decision you make when buying new construction is not just which house you choose—it is selecting the right community for your family. The “perfect” floor plan will never feel quite right if the neighborhood around it does not fit your daily life. As premier homebuilders in the Savannah, GA area, Ernest Homes knows what matters most when you are comparing communities.
Use this checklist to evaluate each neighborhood before you decide where to build your new home.
Quality Education Options
Whether you prefer highly rated public schools, private or charter schools, or a strong homeschooling network, make sure nearby options support the type of education you want for your children. If your preferred school requires tuition, confirm that the cost fits comfortably in your budget before you sign a contract.
Strong Community Services & Infrastructure
Your family’s safety and well-being depend on reliable local services. Research the quality of police and fire departments, nearby hospitals, urgent care centers, and other emergency services. You want to know that trained professionals are close by when you need them most.
Convenient Access to Everyday Amenities
Most families want everyday essentials within a reasonable drive of home. Think about grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, gyms, restaurants, and entertainment. If you dream of a more secluded, “deep country” lifestyle you may be comfortable driving longer distances—but families with young children or older relatives often need quick trips for errands and appointments.
Green Space to Relax and Play
Lawns, trees, playgrounds, and outdoor gathering spaces add so much to everyday life. Look for parks, walking trails, neighborhood pools, and open areas where kids can play and adults can unwind. The right amount of breathing room and green space helps your family feel at home in the community you choose.
Privacy and Community Personality
Ask yourself how social you want your neighborhood to be. Do you love block parties, play dates, and neighborhood events—or do you prefer quiet evenings and a smaller circle of close friends? Spend time in the community at different times of day to get a feel for noise levels, traffic, and the overall personality of the area.
Safety & Crime Trends
Review local crime statistics for the areas you are considering. Look at the types of incidents reported, how often they occur, and whether crime is trending up or down. Ask about neighborhood watch programs or community groups that help keep the area safe and connected.
Talk to Future Neighbors
Take a few walks through the community and chat with current residents. Ask what they love most, what they would change, and how they feel about the local schools, amenities, and HOA (if there is one). You will also see how well neighbors maintain their homes and yards—something that impacts both pride of ownership and long-term property values.
Match the Community to Your Family’s Needs
Finally, think about what your current neighborhood is missing and what you hope to gain in your next move. Make a list of “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves,” then rank them from most important to least important. Comparing communities against this list can make your decision more objective and less emotional.
When you are ready to explore new home communities in Savannah and Coastal Georgia, the Ernest Homes team is here to help. Browse our new home communities or reach out through our Contact Us page to find the neighborhood that feels just right for your family.
