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October
8

Augusta Maine What Makes a Neighborhood Walkable
Augusta homes for sale
benefit from some genuinely unique amenities. The city of Augusta is at the heart of so much of what's exciting about Maine: The best employers, dining, shopping, and education are all within reach. It still maintains the charm that makes Maine "Vacationland." 

Our real estate agents recognize that, when it comes to real estate, time is of the essence! You might want to slow down and enjoy your new Augusta lifestyle. That's when you'll discover it's a great place to go for a walk.

If you want to take in the sights and also help maintain your health, you're in luck: Many parts of Augusta are highly walkable, and there are some great bike paths also.

But what is walkability and how can you measure it when you compare neighborhoods?

How to Determine if a Neighborhood is Walkable

The website WalkScore.com has been an ambassador of the concept of walkability. It rates a neighborhood where "most errands can be accomplished on foot" as walkable.

The most walkable neighborhoods are those where a car isn't required at all. Naturally, though, this is rare outside larger cities in the U.S. and is more likely in urban centers.

Although WalkScore.com is convenient and can get you started, it's not the last word. Whether or not an area is walkable depends on many factors, including your interests.

Walkability combines many factors:

  • Are there walking paths leading to and from key amenities like stores and restaurants?
  • Are existing streets well-kept, with adequate crosswalks, traffic lights, and signage?
  • Are paths set up in such a way you can use them 24 hours a day, e.g., good lighting?
  • Are there public transit options that can help you make city-wide walking journeys?
  • Are any parts of town isolated due to highways and other non-walkable obstructions?
  • Will you be able to walk to employers or should you expect a traditional commute?
  • Many people desire a degree of walkability, but don't feel everything has to be accessible on foot. The best way to find the right balance for you is to visit your new neighborhood and go for a walk – ideally, starting from your prospective home – to places you would regularly visit.

Although walking everywhere is a commitment not everyone is interested in, it's great to be able to walk to a favorite grocery store or eatery every now and again. There are also special cases where walkability counts double: For example, kids getting safely to and from school.

Walking more often can enrich your appreciation for your new home. Ten minutes of walking each day can go a long way toward helping you stay healthier and even encourage weight loss.

Plus, Augusta locals can stroll along the gorgeous Kennebec River whenever the mood is right!

Find Your Dream Home in a Charming City with Sprague & Curtis Real Estate

At Sprague & Curtis, our team works around the clock to make your home search easier by working with you to ensure the neighborhood you choose has all the features essential to you.

Choosing a walkable area of the city can make life much more convenient and has even inspired people to go car-free. No matter what your goals for your Augusta relocation are, we'll give you a head start by taking a genuine interest in your needs.

Expert advice and responsive customer service are both yours when you choose Sprague & Curtis.  Contact us today to find out more. We look forward to helping you soon!

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