NabeWise helps users learn more about a neighborhood they plan to visit or live in. The user can begin by searching for a location by zip code, address, city or neighborhood. Users can also refine their search by what characteristics are most important to them. Options include a diverse collection of characteristics such as trendy, safety, parking, nightlife, dining, shopping, public transportation, families and single life. After searching, users can review pages for each neighborhood (or "Nabe"). The site includes many important details such as schools, statistics, maps and user created reviews. Each listing features a short description that provides more insight along with tags that have already been assigned to the neighborhood. Users can view actual photos taken from the area and add their own tags to the Nabe page. Maps include filters (or "Nabe" spots) that allow the user to see what businesses are operating in the area.
NabeWise was founded by Ann Baldinucci to provide internet users with a better way to learn about a neighborhood they have never visited. The website is based around the idea that each neighborhood has its own personality and character. Although users can find practical information like local school names, stats and street maps, they can also gain more insight into what the neighborhood has to offer. Today, many users visit NabeWise to find neighborhoods that match their lifestyle and preferences when moving to a new home.
There are many ways to search for basic neighborhood information on the web. Users can visit any number of map applications to view streets and addresses while other sites provide zip codes, utility companies and other practical information. NabeWise is one of the very few that supply much more than the basics. Users can learn more about the feel and atmosphere of a specific neighborhood as well as how safe it is to live in or visit.
The NabeWise website uses a friendly blue color scheme with an eye-catching logo that matches the site's personality. Users can easily locate the search bar at the top of the page to locate neighborhoods or other users. Nabe pages retain the same well-organized design by sorting the information into five main pages: overview, maps and Nabe spots, schools and stats, photos and videos and reviews. Overall, NabeWise offers a wealth of valuable information presented in a way that even novice internet users can quickly master.
New visitors are not required to sign up to search for neighborhood information. All visitors are given access to the search without any restrictions. Users who would like to utilize all NabeWise features can click the blue "Sign Up" button at the top, right hand corner of the homepage. The form on the following page asks the user to supply an email address, first and last name and password. A small box at the bottom of the form is automatically selected to sign the user up for NabeWise email updates. The user must manually uncheck the box to opt out of emails. Blue Facebook buttons are also available on the homepage and form for users who prefer to connect through their Facebook profile.
NabeWise is a free application that welcomes all users to try its service. There are no subscription fees or other charges associated with using NabeWise. All users are given the same level of access. The site relies heavily on user participation because its reviews and neighborhood information is gathered primarily from its user community. Free access is a good way to ensure that new users continue to join and share their neighborhood experience with the community.
NabeWise.com is a helpful resource for anyone moving or visiting an unfamiliar area. The site contains a great deal of unique information that covers personality, safety and convenience. The user can move to or visit the neighborhood better prepared for the atmosphere and risks (if any exist) before they get there. The site can also ensure that the user selects a home in a neighborhood that suits their needs as well as their interests.