Crime Rate
Crime statistics while an imperfect measurement at best, nevertheless provide some indication of the level of criminal activity in an area. To check the crime statistics for the cities of Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale, Mesa, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert and Peoria, go to www.faxnet1.org . In other cities, you may be able to find information about the crime rate on the city's website by searching "crime statistics." For a list of all Arizona city links, go to http://www.azleague.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=about.cities . A visit or phone call to law enforcement agencies may also be advisable.

Sex Offenders
Since June 1996, Arizona has had a registry and community notification program for convicted sex offenders. To find out if a registered sex offender resides in the neighborhood, go to www.azsexoffender.org . Be aware that prior to June 1996 registration was not required, and only sex offenders determined to be a higher risk are on the website.

Freeway Construction
Although the existence of a freeway near your home may provide highly desirable access, sometimes it contributes to undesirable noise. New freeways are built on a regular basis and existing roadways may be expanded. To find out about planned freeway/roadway construction and planning, go to the Arizona Department of Transportation website at www.dot.state.az.us/Highways/RFS/loops.asp.

Military and Public Airport
Arizona law requires the identification of areas in the immediate vicinity of military and public airports that are susceptible to a certain level of noise from aircraft. The boundaries of these areas have been plotted on maps that can help you determine if a home falls within one of these areas. The map for military airports, such as Luke Air Force Base, may be found at www.re.state.az.us/airport.html . Maps for many of the public airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Williams Gateway Airport may be viewed at www.re.state.az.us/airports/airportintro.html . Be aware that although these maps show areas subject to the preponderance of airport-related noise, periodic over-flights that may contribute to noise cannot usually be determined from these maps.

Environmental Hazards
Before buying a home, home buyers may want to obtain information about the potential impact of any environmental hazards, such as soil and groundwater contamination or air pollution. Local, county, or state health or environmental departments are sources of such information. For example, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) website, www.adeq.state.az.us  contains a great deal of environmental information. Another source of general information about some of the environmental hazards that have the potential to affect the home environment may be found at www.consumerlawpage.com/brochure/home-haz.shtml . Also, there are areas in Arizona where the soil and groundwater have been contaminated by improper disposal of contaminants, such as Superfund or WQARF sites. To check if a home is in an area designated by the ADEQ as requiring cleanup, go to www.adeq.state.az.us/environ/waste/sps/phx.html .

Schools
The Arizona Department of Real Estate advises new home buyers to contact the school district to determine whether nearby schools are accepting new students. "Some school districts, especially in the northwest part of the greater Phoenix area, have placed a cap on enrollment. You may find that your children cannot attend the school nearest you and may even be transported to another community." Home buyers should visit the local school to talk with the teachers and students as well. In addition, public and charter school information may be accessed at the Arizona Department of Education website, www.ade.state.az.us/schools . This site contains a lot of information, including School Report Cards that list school accomplishments and student achievement.

Noise and Odors
A neighborhood may have completely different characteristics at different times of the day. Noise and odors may be barely noticeable at some times and quite noticeable at other times. Buyers should drive around the neighborhood, preferably on different days at several different times of the day and evening, to investigate the noise and odor levels, as well as any other significant characteristics.

Neighbors
Talk to the surrounding neighbors about the neighborhood and the history of the home being considered for purchase. Neighbors can provide a wealth of information.

K. Michelle Lind, Esq.

Michelle is general counsel to the Arizona Association of REALTORS® (¿AAR¿) and a State Bar of Arizona board certified real estate specialist. She serves as the primary legal advisor to the association, provides legal direction in the development of standard forms, is involved in legislative advocacy, and assists in the association¿s educational efforts.

Please note that this article is of a general nature and may not be updated or revised for accuracy as statutory or case law changes following the date of first publication. Further, this article reflects only the opinion of the author, is not intended as definitive legal advice and you should not act upon it without seeking independent legal counsel.