Some websites for assessing community values
(2006-05-26 12:11:50)
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Moving or relocation happens very often for us in USA. How can we assess community values to find a dream new home we will enjoy to live? Here are some websites that I read from Wall Street Journal yesterday.
First, you may start with some web research to identify target towns. HomeFair.com and BestPlaces.net offer free city comparisons on climate, transportation, crime adn other elements of community life. SchoolMatch.com provides comparative school data.
Secondly, if you want a low-key, family-oriented community, look for towns with a high percentage of homeownership, reflecting stability. Housing costs should be average or above average for the area - but not so high that middle-income families are priced out of the market. Seek communities with a high proportion of families with children. Spend time on the public-school web sites to assess extracurricular activities, student teacher ratio and vitality of parent teacher organizations. Check the Chamber of Commerce web site to gauge the quality of , and community support for, civic, charity and volunteer activities. How many churches or synagogues does the community have, and how healthy and acitive are they? Even if religious affiliation isn't a factor for you, the presence of houses of worship may reflect a focus on family commitment.
Finally, talk to people in town. Visit the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses. Arrange a tour of schools, including time to talk with administrators. Last but not the least, take a leisurely windshield tour. While all this requires work, it should yield long-term dividends in the form of a great community fit for your family.
Finding the right community that reflects your values can be a challenge, but it can be done.
Thank you so much for the accounting information you posted in your blog. I am an undergraduate student in NC, majoring in Accounting. I am graduating in this coming December, and am planning to sit in the CPA exam early next year. But I am not very confident what I’ve learned from school, I think I should take some kind of review classes. As you mention in your blog, Becker Review is good, but very expensive. And I am struggling if I should take the class online or in class. A lot of people say it is more focus if you are taking in class, but others say online is the same thing. Could you please share some of your experience with me? And how many times it would usually take to pass all 4 parts?
Anna, I’ve read most of your posting answers in Wenxue City, you are so nice and kind to everybody, and the information you provide is very valuable. I wish I would have a friend like you, who can give me some advice about my future. Thank you very much for your time.
Alice