What to Look for in Your Dream Home

Posted on September 17, 2010 in General

It is almost a real estate gospel that the three most important things to look for when purchasing a home are location, location and location. That being said, there are a few other factors to think about before you make this monumental purchase, but we can discuss location first. Realize that a home purchase is usual only worthwhile if you plan on staying a while. If you are young, consider if you will be having children while living in this area. If you will, or already have children, you need to investigate the neighborhood schools and see if you feel comfortable with them, and if not, what other options there might be.

Another thing to consider is if there is a church or other house of worship conveniently located to where you live. If you want to participate in a faith-community, it might be easier if the community you feel most comfortable with is not too far away. The less convenient the church, the less you are likely to participate.

Another aspect of location is how convenient is it for you to get to work? It is pretty annoying to drive long distances at the end of a long, tiring work day to get back home. Also realize that the longer the commute to work, the more time is taken away from your ability to enjoy your new, beautiful home. Also, is the neighborhood noisy? Are there major thoroughfares creating noise or air pollution? And how is the shopping? Are you conveniently located near a mall or convenience stores?

Once you’ve found a location you think you can learn to love, it is time to take a good look at the type of house you need. You might love to stretch out into a large home with plenty of space to set up hobby rooms, work rooms, office space, guest bedrooms and the like, but always keep in mind that the larger the house the larger the taxes, heating bills, upkeep bills and everything that you will need to do in a smaller home, just more of it. Always consider your lifestyle and match your home to the real you and your family. Happy house hunting!