If you're
thinking about buying a new (or old!) home, our list of the "Top Things to
Look for When Buying a Home" can help to get your search off to the right
start. While the number of rooms, condition of the kitchen, and size of the
yard are important, there are other things to consider before you make an
offer.
- Location,
Location, Location
They say that the 3 most important things to think about when buying are
home are location, location, location. You can live with almost any
imperfection in a home if you love the neighborhood and your neighbors.
You can change almost everything else. But, once bought, you cannot change
your home's location. When you go house hunting, consider any potential
home's proximity to your work, the charm of the neighborhood, how the home
is situated on the lot, ease of access, noise from neighbors, traffic, or
pets, and access to parks, shopping, schools, and public transportation.
- Situation
Factors
Beyond location, look at the particular site of the home. If the home is
on a hill does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to
climb? Do neighbors' windows look directly into the home? Is the yard
suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is access to the
property safe regarding driveway elevation, stairs up to (or down to) the
front door?
- Check Out
the Neighborhood
Be sure the neighborhood, and not just the house, meets your expectations.
They say that you should own the smallest home in the nicest neighborhood
that you can afford. You'll have a great view! Drive around on week days
and weekends, during the day and in the evening. Are homes in the
neighborhood consistent in size and features? Do the neighbors keep the
yards clean and tidy or are there old cars and trash around? Is the
neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run, or bike and are there
children playing in the yards?
- Consider a
Home's Curb Appeal
Your home should reflect your lifestyle. Do you live a laid-back life?
Then you might not want a formal Victorian or Tudor style home. Something
simpler and more contemporary might be in order. Look at the exterior
features. A brick home is easier to maintain, unless you live in an
earthquake-prone area! Is the roof in good condition? Is the landscaping
attractive and are the sidewalks leading to the home safe?
Read here about choosing, buying, and applying exterior Paint.
- Size and
Floor Plan
You may be thinking about buying your dream home. But is your dream home
impractical? Do you really need 4 bedrooms and 4 baths when you live
alone? A large home can give you the extra space you've always wanted for
a home office or crafts or art projects. But you'll pay higher heating
bills and have higher taxes. It will take more furniture to furnish and
money to decorate. Think about how the new home space will be used and
whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.
Get information here on design Tools
