Buying in Watts-Hillandale Durham (close to 9th street) -- anything to know? (crime)

[cheese_cakes]

I'm interested in a house in this area.

I love it because I feel it's very connected to downtown Durham. People tell me downtown will only grow and it's a good time to buy.

The neighborhood seems really nice and its walkable to 9th street. The houses are a little expensive but I suppose that's the premium I'm paying for downtown.

Is there anything I should watch out for in that area? Is it safe to walk at night? Is the train sound very loud? Any pests around there?

I've never bought a house and I'm just overwhelmed with info

[BoBromhal]

it is certainly one of the best areas of downtown to buy in. It's also, as you noted, more expensive. If there were structural issues - crime, too much RR noise, etc - then the prices wouldn't be so high. Everywhere in NC has pests - insects.

do a spotcrime for the house address, and see what pops up in the 4 to 5 blocks surrounding you.

[TarHeelNick]

One of the hottest neighborhoods in the Triangle. Homes there sell fast and for increasingly high price per sq ft; often approaching $300.

The homes are generally older, mostly built in the 20s-40s and that comes with the associated risks/issues. The demand is clearly there; only you can decide if it is the right fit for what you are looking for.

The scariest thing I see in Watts-Hillandale is the nauseating number of Duke flags flying from mailboxes and front porches.