Hi,
Riverside Heights is a nice place to live. We have lived here for nearly 12 years. We have seen many homes renovated or rebuilt during this time. I think that the neighborhood has improved dramatically since we moved here. Generally speaking, the lots are large, which allows for additions, garages, pools, etc. The value of my home is at least 3X what I paid for it, and that does not include renovations & additions.
Location is great, as you have mentioned. Some streets, or parts of streets are much nicer than others. While most areas are nice, I would advise to take a good look at your close neighbor's homes before buying if the neighbor's home's appearance is a concern to you.
Recently there have been some large, expensive homes built, which certainly raise the standards of the 'hood.
Regarding safety, I can only speak from my own experience. The only problem I have had was having a portable air compressor stolen out of my garage 7 or 8 years ago. I occasionally see unfamiliar faces walking or riding bicycles slowly down the streets, and I think some of these persons may be looking for an opportunity to grab something to take to a pawn shop, so I either keep my garage door closed or make sure I am close by. This is not an everyday occurrence. I have heard of some occasional thefts and car break ins, but I think this is the case in any neighborhood.
I have never feared walking in the area, even at night, although there are a few unsavory areas on the fringes of the neighborhood that I would avoid. I also would not stroll through a park at 3:00 a.m., but that is just me. Crime is not a problem that would deter me from buying here.
I have never seen or heard of the river flooding any part of the neighborhood, but if you are considering living on waterfront property, I would ask the folks who live there now. Streets fill with water during heavy downpours, but it appears to drain away quickly.
I hope you find this info useful!
