House Hunting 101: Key Factors to Consider Before Stepping Inside
House Hunting Secrets Part 1~ Size Does Matter
Readers will learn essential tips for house hunting, including evaluating location, structural integrity, and potential renovations.
When house hunting, readers should look for a desirable location, a structurally sound house, and the potential for customization or renovation.
Insights on house hunting, covering aspects such as location, structural integrity, and potential renovations to help readers make informed decisions.
House hunting can be an exciting and incredible experience. I’ve been an agent for years and yet it’s still a rush when I’m trying to find a buyer a home. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner looking to upgrade, it's important to keep your focus on the details. Especially ones that can’t be changed vs the ones that can.
To help you in home shopping journey, we've compiled a list of essential tips and things to look for when searching for your dream home. This is Part 1 of a two part article on things to look for when house hunting.
We always look at a home from the perspective of how challenging will this home be to sell for my clients? This perspective let’s us really consider whether a home is a good investment for a buyer.
When house hunting, you should be looking for a desirable location that meets your needs, a structurally sound house without major issues, and the potential for customization or renovations to align with your preferences and future plans.
Location, Location, Location
The first and foremost aspect to consider when house hunting is the location. Evaluate the neighborhood's safety, proximity to schools, shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and your workplace. Think about your lifestyle preferences and determine if the area aligns with your needs. Keep in mind that a desirable location can positively impact your property value in the long run.
You can change a lot of things about a home, but not it’s location. So keep that in mind when you are considering buying a home in a neighborhood that may not improve. Even if you don’t have school-age children, consider school districts and school systems in your search. Even if it’s not going to be something you care about – potential buyers might.
Size and Layout
Consider the size of the house and its layout. Determine if the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and common areas will adequately accommodate your family's needs. Think about your future plans and assess if the property has the potential for expansion or customization if required. A well-designed layout can enhance the functionality and livability of your home.
We like to say that space solves problems when it comes to real estate. Space gives you the ability to add a bathroom or more closet room. Having said that, there are homes out there that have such a complicated layout that it would take a prohibitive amount of money to make them functional. Stick to easy, and unless you’re a contractor, try to stick to the path of least resistance.
Natural Lighting and Ventilation
Ample natural lighting and proper ventilation contribute to a comfortable living environment. During your home visits, observe the placement of windows, the amount of sunlight entering each room, and how well the house is ventilated.
A well-lit and properly ventilated home not only provides a pleasant ambiance but also reduces the need for artificial lighting and excessive air conditioning. Covid, reminded homeowners why they cared so much about outdoors, natural lighting and ventilation.
Amenities and Nearby Facilities
Consider the amenities available within the community or the proximity to essential facilities. This may include parks, recreational areas, swimming pools, fitness centers, or nearby schools and hospitals. Neighborhood walkability and convenient access to amenities can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Potential Renovations and Upgrades
If you're open to renovations, evaluate the home's potential for improvement and customization. Look for properties that align with your vision and have the necessary space or features for your desired renovations. Consider the costs and timeline associated with these upgrades to ensure they fit within your budget and time constraints.
This is why space solves problems. It gives you the ability to make meaningful changes to your home. As culture and consumer habits change, you can update your home to match. Consider in the 1950s kitchens were small spaces closed off from the rest of the living areas. Today they are showplaces in the center of it all.
We may not know what’s coming next, but we know that flexible homes with the potential for future updates will always be valuable.
Future Resale Value
While purchasing a home, it's smart to consider its future resale value, even if you plan to live in it for an extended period.
This is something that even the best agents can screw up. It’s because no one knows what’s going to happen in the future. Just know and stick with things that people have valued in the past. So a neighborhood's desirability, its school districts, and the regional market conditions can influence your property's appreciation over time.
House Hunting 101...
House hunting requires a thoughtful approach to find a home that meets your needs and aligns with your future plans.
By focusing on crucial aspects such as location, structural integrity, size and layout, natural lighting, amenities, potential renovations, and future resale value, you can make a well-informed choice.
In our next article in the series we’ll take a look at some of the specific details in a home that you should take a look at when you are house hunting. Remember to seek the guidance of a qualified real estate agent who can provide valuable insights and assist you throughout the process.
Happy home shopping!
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