Michael Petruccelli says; Finally,
do your own sleuthing by spending time in the neighborhoods that interest you.
Look for bars on doors and windows and alarm company signs in front of homes,
giveaways to a troubled neighborhood. Chat with business owners. Knock on doors
to ask neighbors about crime. If you’re renting, pick an upper-floor unit
(ground-floor apartments can be attacked more easily). Look for on-site
management and inspect the complex carefully, watching for damaged doors that
signal previous break-ins. Best is an apartment with kick-proof metal door
jambs rather than wood or a steel door.
