House Hunting: Top 10 Things to Look for
Are you thinking about buying a home?
This list can help get your search off on the right foot. Try considering these factors, before taking your decision.
- Location
Once bought, you cannot change your home’s location. They say that the three most important things to think about when buying your home are location, location, location. You can manage almost any imperfection in a home if you love the neighbourhood and your neighbours. Important elements can be: proximity to your work, the charm of the neighbourhood, noisy neighbours, ease of access and access to parks, shopping centres, public transportation, traffic, and pets.
- Site
Beyond location, look at the site of the home. Is it on a hill, or by the sea, does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to climb? How close is to other houses and do neighbours’ windows look directly into the home? Is the yard suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is access to the property safe?
- Neighbourhood
Be sure the neighbourhood meets your expectations. Drive around on weekdays and weekends, during the day and in the evening. Do the neighbours keep the yards clean and tidy? Is the neighbourhood safe enough for people to walk, run, or bike, and are there children playing in the yards?
- Lifestyle
Your home should reflect your lifestyle.
- Size and the Floor Plan
Your dream home should be practical. Consider what you are looking from your house. Do you need a large space? An extra room to use as a home office, playroom or TV room? Though you should consider that a large home means extra costs and higher taxes.
- Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need, and only look at homes that meet your criteria. An extra bedroom is always a plus, as it can be used for a home office, craft studio, or guest room.
- The Kitchen
If the kitchen is the heart of your home, don’t settle for a home with a kitchen that won’t work.
- The Closets and Storage
Older homes tend to have little closets and not a lot of storage space. Newer homes tend to have big closets and lots of storage. You can always add storage space, but you might have to sacrifice living space in your rooms.
- The Windows and Lighting
Do you love a bright sunny room, or do you love privacy? Look at a home with light and sunshine in mind. Look at the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures.
- The Finishing Touches
Sometimes the simplest home looks spectacular thanks to a fireplace, a jacuzzi or a pool. If these elements are important to you, look for them while house hunting or be ready to add them after you move in.
If you keep these specific elements of a home in mind, your house hunting will be more successful, and you’ll likely end up with the home of your dreams.
