Buying a home is probably one of the most important purchases you will ever make. There are so many things to consider. It is easy to become overwhelmed, which may lead to you making snap decisions. When you view potential properties it is a good idea to have a checklist of what you are looking for.
Family Consensus
Let’s face it, your home is a hub for the entire family. When you buy a new home you will want it to work for everyone. That means sitting down as a family and creating a wish list for your ideal home. Think about all the features you want and make sure you consider the location of the property in relation to amenities.
Of course, you need to set limits. Make sure that everyone knows that you are working with a budget. An indoor heated pool would be nice, but it’s not exactly a realistic option for most people. Create a checklist on paper and take a copy to each property that you view. That way you won’t forget to check for anything on your wish list.
Size and Location
The size and location of the properties are two of the most important aspects to consider when buying a home. You should ensure that the property has enough rooms and that they are large enough for your needs. Alternatively, you may want a smaller space if you prefer a more minimalistic style of home.
When you view a property it is a good idea to scope out the neighbourhood, too. Unless you prefer total isolation, you will want a property that is near schools, shopping centres and other useful amenities. Location should be at the top of your checklist as you can rule out many properties based solely on whether you have access to the amenities that you need.
Property Condition
The age and condition of the property should always influence your decision when buying a home when it comes to signing on the dotted line. Age is not necessarily a deal breaker, however. Older properties have character. Think about how you want your home to look, and whether the age of the property will impact on your choice of decor.
One of the major downsides of older properties is that they tend to need more work. Knowing the condition of the property will allow you to make an informed decision when it comes to negotiations. You can either purchase the property at the asking price and work to make improvements, or you can negotiate a lower price due to any defects in the property.
Made to Order
If you have the patients to view a large number of properties, you may want to hold off until you find a property that checks off all or most of your requirements. While the process of viewing multiple properties can become tedious, the reward is finding a property that suits your every need.
Another benefit of viewing multiple properties is that you can find a property that needs very little work and has the potential for future renovations. If you buy a property that has very little land space, you may not have the option of expansion in the future.
Cost Considerations When Buying a Home
The cost of the home purchase is obviously important, but what about other costs? When you looking for a home to purchase you should include costs on your checklist. Look at the type of air condition in the home. Think about costs for commuting to schools or work. If additional costs are going to put a strain on your monthly budget, you should seriously reconsider even if you love the property.
If you really love a property but there is an aspect that will cost you in the long run, there is the option of renovation. You can research the cost of renovations before making your final decision. If the cost of replacing something like an air conditioning system is within your budget, don’t pass on your dream home.
