The house hunt can be overwhelming but defining personal housing needs before making the purchase makes the move a lot more satisfying. Defining family housing needs is about more than a certain number of bedrooms or a particular zip code. It’s about who you are, how you want to live and how to accomplish that goal within your budget. As you move through your home search journey, there are a few questions you should consider to make sure the home you fall in love with is actually “the one.” 1. Is this home located in your target area? If you were to purchase this home, how long would your commute be? Does it put you too far from family or friends? Is the location going to be the right fit for your lifestyle? Even if you love everything else about a property, if it isn’t in a great location, it may not be the right place for you to settle down. 2. Does it check your “must-have” boxes? During your home search, you should make a list of non-negotiable must-haves, such as having a certain number of bedrooms or a sprawling backyard. While you may not be able to find a home that meets every single need, it can help you decide whether a property is right for you. This article has some pertinent questions to guide you in the quest for “the one”. 3. Will this home meet your needs both now and in the future? As you build your non-negotiable must-haves list, it can be easy to only consider your current needs and wants. But what about five or even ten years down the road? Purchasing a home that only fits your current lifestyle may leave you wanting more in the future! 4. Are there any potential issues you’ll need to fix? Even if everything else about the home is absolutely perfect, you’ll still want to make sure you aren’t setting yourself up for potential pricy repairs anytime soon. Be sure to check the roof, windows, HVAC, and plumbing for any signs of damage. And don’t forget to have a home inspection done so you can uncover any major issues before it’s too late. 5. Does the price fit within your budget? Love at first sight is important, but it’s also important to remember the practical side of things — and that means your budget! If the home you love falls outside of your price range, you may want to consider looking elsewhere. |