It all depends on your comfort zone!

I know and have met many people from many different backgrounds that have either moved into or are considering moving into some of the "transient" neighborhoods DT Durham has to offer. Many good things are happening in those areas and I myself have been involved and visited those areas many times.

If you're thinking of buying in an up and coming affordable area in Durham that may be safe for your children then you may want to consider your comfort zone. My wife and I are about to make an offer on a house that needs work near NCCU but we know the area is relatively safe and we feel this home would be a good choice for us right now. We hope to establish ourselves strongly in the neighborhood and hope to make an impact in our neighborhood. We have seen many do the same recently in the neighborhoods of East Durham & Cleveland-Holloway. You can check out my blog at http://www.bullcitybungalow.com for more info on living life in or around Durham.

I love this area of Durham. I have 2 investment homes, both not far from N. Roxboro which tends to be safer. In general, this area of Durham changes block by block. You could be on 1 block that is quiet and safe, yet around the corner on the other block drug dealing is standard. The best thing to do is go, spend time in the area, meet some of the neighbors and talk with them. Do not buy long-distance. My experience is that if you know your neighbors and you are part of the community, you won't have any problems.

A lot of the houses in that area are beautiful but old and need to be renovated. Make sure to check that out.

I also do some other research. A friend of mine who was a principal of one of Durham high schools and is active in one of the larger churches--I ask him about specific blocks and he asks around. I get the lowdown.

You are embarking on an exciting venture. Good luck.

You can review the Durham Police Department's crime reports at http://gisweb.durhamnc.gov/gis_apps/crimedata/dsp_entryform.cfm

Rachel Leber
REALTOR, Broker, MBA

Keller Williams Realty
1516 E. Franklin St. Suite 100
Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Cell: (919) 308-9878
Private Fax: (919) 951-1922 http://www.LeberRealEstate.com

Hi Fairy
I would recommend looking at the Crime map http://www.durhampolice.com/crimemapper.cfm
I would be happy to send you some available properties.
Michael