Better Think Twice About Buying a Home Next to a US Highway!

Have you ever met such a slick realtor who can sell anything? Some will even try to convince you that living on the moon is terrific! They know a trick or two and can build castles in the air. For this reason, buyers must be cautious before buying a property and check the neighborhood for themselves! For instance, trains can thunder in the distance, airplanes can take off and land, and trucks can rumble the roads next to you all day without you knowing beforehand. Let's explore all those roadblocks and red flags you must be aware of when buying a home next to a highway!

How would you sell a property next to a busy freeway?

People are not gullible to such an extent that they believe living near a highway doesn't come with a fair share of pitfalls. However, some would choose to focus on the sunny side instead. How would a sharp agent pitch the sale? Let's see some of the perks they'd draw attention to!

• Looking for your dream home with easy-peasy access to everything? Imagine a place where "the world is your oyster," literally minutes from the highway! Purchasing this treasure close to a road means investing in a lifestyle upgrade. Say goodbye to long commutes! Hello, more 'me' time!

• Why spend hours in traffic when you could be almost whisked away to your destinations? Close to the highway means you're at the heart of convenience. Coffee on the go? Check. Quick grocery run? Double-check.

• Concerned about the hustle and bustle? This home for sale is strategically located! Thus, it delivers peace while keeping vibrant city life within easy reach. It's the perfect combination. Have your cake and eat it too!

The bigger picture is more nuanced and complex.

On the other hand, a fair realtor from the most reliable real estate agents directory will bring a long list of disadvantages, risks, and dangers of living near a highway to your attention! So, see beyond the appearances. Living near a US highway may come with perks, like convenience, easy access to major cities, and reduced commute times. But it has its downsides. Let's break down what's at stake for you, especially if you're stepping into the home-buying arena for the first time!

What's that noise? The unseen guest of highway proximity

Ever imagine having a sleepover with the sound of roaring engines night after night? One of the most obvious risks of living near a highway is noise pollution. Constant traffic noise isn't just irritating. It can interfere with your sleep and lead to longer-term health issues like stress. Did we mention high blood pressure is also in the cards?

Traffic noise levels regularly range from 70 to 80 dB at 50 feet from the highway. To make this easier to comprehend, a whisper is approximately 30 dB, a standard conversation is 60 dB, and a motorcycle engine running is 95 dB. You can feel very annoyed at 80 dB and beyond if exposed to loud sound for long. If a person is exposed to 90 dB for a more extended period (eight hours), this can lead to hearing loss.

How to combat noise pollution?

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognized noise-induced hazards long ago. It passed the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1970 to control noise pollution nationally. Zoning and land-use planning are some of the most notable means of reducing noise. Still, it's every state's responsibility to take plausible actions.

You can soundproof your home by installing a fence, magnetic acrylic windows, rugs, and carpets, and hanging as many curtains as possible. Yet, before you sign on the dotted line, consider visiting the property at different times to gauge the noise level.

Breathing easy or hard? The air quality conundrum

Think about the air you breathe! Vehicles discharge fumes containing harmful pollutants. Closeness to a main road can mean these pollutants become your constant companions. They can potentially worsen or cause health issues like asthma or other respiratory problems. Breathing air near a highway (for a prolonged period) can be bad for your health.

Health problems caused by air pollution

Maintaining a safe distance from heavy traffic areas is crucial whenever possible, particularly if you already have respiratory or heart conditions.

Asthma: The polluted air can trigger asthma attacks.

Lung problems: Air pollutants can make breathing difficult and damage your lungs over time.

Heart issues: Polluted air can also affect your heart, leading to serious conditions like heart attack, stroke, or arrhythmias.

Allergies: Do you suffer from allergies? The dirty air can make them worse.

Headaches and dizziness: Air pollution can make you feel light-headed or give you a headache.

Safety First! Fast Lanes and Faster Vehicles

Living near a highway puts you near fast-moving traffic, raising a brand-new chapter in safety concerns. Are you a family with kids or pets? The risk of accidents near your doorstep is higher (think of Pet Sematary! (1989)). For this reason, you'd better be super-conscious about your decision to relocate here and take preventive measures! Did you know a peaceful walk in your neighborhood can become a life-threatening challenge?

Highest vs. lowest speed limits in the US

You'll find the highest speed limits in rural areas of Texas. Some highways permit speeds up to 85 mph, the country's highest posted speed limit. Specifically, a toll road, Texas State Highway 130 (SH 130), part of which runs between Austin and San Antonio, has sections posted with this speed limit.

On the other hand, speed limits might be as low as 55 mph in certain densely populated or high-traffic areas. However, speeds can be much lower within certain areas, like school zones or specific local roads, though these are outside highways.

Properties next to a highway are value rollercoasters.

What happens to the value of your home down the line? Homes near (or too close to) highways can be more challenging to sell and might not appreciate as well as those in quieter areas. While you might save now, consider the long-term picture of your investment.

How about convenience? If your house is close to a busy road, it might affect its value, but it depends on how close it really is. Suppose your place is snuggled behind another house closer to the highway. In that case, your home might still feel the impact. However, the farther away your house is, the less it's affected.

For neighborhoods located near major highways, houses can often be more valuable due to their convenient proximity to commuters. People are often okay with paying extra for the convenience of getting to the city faster than living out in the sticks.

Conclusion

This article touches on the key points to consider when living near a highway. For a deeper dive before buying a home near a main road, it's best to consult with a real estate professional and conduct further research. Our recommendations are:

Experience the area at various times of the day and week to get a true sense of living there. Check air quality reports to understand the environmental impact of highway proximity. Research how the local government and community address pedestrian safety. Furthermore, check for sufficient barriers or sound walls near the property!