Here are a couple cool resources for anyone looking to buy a home called EveryBlock.com. www.Everyblock.com provides a wealth of information about the five cities they serve (Charlotte, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco...soon to include all the Texas cities). They display business reviews, permits, crimes, liquor licenses, real estate listings from Trulia and Redfin, restaurant inspections, zoning agenda items, as well as maps pinpointing relevant locations.

Another good local site, www.Eventful.com, claims to be the “world’s leading events website” and has a comprehensive list of events occurring near your local address.