10 things to consider when buying a home

10 Things to Consider When Buying a Home

For you by Your Towne Builders

Home ownership is a huge milestone for a lot of people and a very exciting time in life.

Buying home often means you now have a sense of financial stability, you need to

upgrade due to a baby on the way, or even moving to a new location for that dream job

you just landed. Whatever your reason for buying a home is, there are some things to

consider before taking the plunge.

1. Location

Location landed the number one spot because it’s probably the single most important aspect

of buying a home. When it comes to home ownership, you want to be in a great area that you will enjoy living in for many years to come. Does this location have everything you need in a relatively close distance and if it doesn’t, will

you be okay with that? Make sure you love where you live because home ownership is

one of the biggest investments you may make.

2. Floor Plan

The biggest mistake people make when buying a home is getting a place that’s too big. You

don’t need as much space as you think. If you don’t have guests over too often there’s no need for a spare bedroom. Be realistic and

think about what you need.

5. Does it Pass the Five Senses Test?

I’ve heard and read horror stories about beautiful looking houses that later on came

with an awful smell. When looking at a house pay attention to all of your senses. Letting the

look of a place overpower all the rest of the things about the house – maybe it’s time to keep looking. You’re going to live here so all

your senses should be happy.

4. School District

Living in a good school district isn’t for just those with the kids. Quality school districts

tend to have a great sense of community and amenities. Families flock to great school districts as well so there will be plenty of

people to interact with on a daily basis. If you are looking to have kids – or already have

them – living in a great school district is vital to your child’s education.

5. Neighborhood

The neighborhood you settle into is always important when buying a house. Do you like

the community you’re in? Check the crime rates to see if this is somewhere you will feel

safe. Also, make sure to check out the neighborhood during different times of the

day. Make sure to drive around the neighborhood at different times during the

day to get a sense of the atmosphere.

6. Kitchen

Kitchens are vital in the overall satisfaction of your home. You will spend countless hours in here preparing meals and enjoying time with

friends and family. Double-check counter spaces and the available storage. Little things like this are easy to overlook when visiting a

home for the first time, but those things become real annoyances once you’ve settled

in.

7. Are You Really Ready?

Buying a home is a daunting task and you will want to be prepared. Ask yourself if you’re

honestly ready – financially and mentally – for all the challenges of home-ownership. If it’s not the right time, that’s okay. It’s better to

take more time to save and be overly prepared. On the other side, if you are ready

and willing – go for it!

8. Will it be a Forever Home?

A house is an investment and some mortgages can be over the span of 30 years. Home

ownership is certainly a long-term investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you aren’t

100% satisfied with the house or its potential, don’t be afraid to walk away.

9. Credit History

Without a solid credit history your hopes of buying a house may diminish rapidly. If you know that you’re going to want a house of

your own eventually, make sure to have great credit. This will also help you get a house in the price range that you want because you will be

able to apply for a mortgage for the appropriate amount.

10. Lifestyle

When you first see the house you’re interested in buying, can you see it fitting your lifestyle

needs? If you like city life – is the house in the city or close enough to it that you’re happy? These are the questions you will need to ask

yourself before making any decisions on a home.