Neighborhood going downhill, more crime

[PetMom]

and our neighborhood is getting the 'dandelion factor', more crime (even a gang member walking around in his regalia), and neighbors leaving empty garbage cans at side of house.

And our street does complain to city about any code violations in appearance of homes (making sure not to do so with the drug dealer house or the gang members' parents home).

Not anything against renters but also many of the homes are now rental properties (and our renter on this street took off with all the applicances, etc).

Some of us have talked of moving.

For now surveillance cameras, security systems and new computer to handle all that has taken a big chunk of money. Also phones to watch the house when away via surveillance cameras. Motion detector lights (and paying for the professionals to wire it in attic) were also added.
Reinforcing doors (to deter kick ins).

We just refied the house and had everything set up - lower house payment, our ef was good, a cushion, retirement funding excellent.

Now realize that we would have to start a separate savings of a downpayment.

And that the longer we stay isn't it true the lower our home value is in a downhill neighborhood.

And we would not find a house at this value, would cost more to move to a better neighborhood.

Any others gone through this or know of someone who has.

[snafu]

Yikes, if I saw evidence that my community was slipping, the dandelion factor, too many renters, and having to call city departments for violations, there would be a For Sale sign up as fast as I could get the rooms 'Staged' for selling. I know from experience that how we live day-to-day in our homes is not how it needs to be presented to potential buyers.

2nd, as part of the 'staging' process and spring cleaning, I'd be re-evaluating everything in every shelf, drawer, cupboard, closet, rod, nook and cranny and ask myself whether I use it, and love it. If it's broken, fix or trash it. If I can't remember the last time I used it, sell, re-gift or donate for a tax deduction. If I had too much/too many clothes, dishes, bedding, towels I'd pick a number and give the extras to others. Moving is a horrid job and I wouldn't bother moving items that didn't serve our needs.

3rd...I'd start watching on-line for properties I'd feel comfortable buying starting with location and then size. I know that anything cosmetic can be fixed, changed, updated etc.