Do You Know What To Look For When Buying A Home?
For many people, buying a home can be an emotional experience. As a buyer, it’s important to take a step back, and think of your home from an investment perspective. After all, your home is likely your biggest asset, and you should have an understanding as to how it fits into your short and long term plans. So how do you know what to look for when buying a home, to ensure that you make the right choice, and get the most for your money?
Pay attention to the neighbourhood – Don’t just focus on the home itself. Take a look at the surrounding properties to get a sense of which direction the neighbourhood is headed. Do you notice pride in ownership when you look at the neighbours’ landscaping and the exterior of the homes? Renovated homes and custom builds in the area are an extremely good sign that the neighbourhood is going to continue to improve, helping you build more equity as you live there.
Look past the cosmetic finishes of the home – New kitchens and gleaming bathrooms are probably the first thing you notice, but there is more than meets the eye. The most expensive elements of the home to replace or repair are the foundation, windows, furnace, and the electrical and plumbing components of the house. If you aren’t confident about your ability to evaluate the home, don’t worry. A home inspection is a wise investment, and could save you from unexpected surprises down the road.
Consider if the floor plan will meet your needs – It’s easy to get distracted by the current owner’s furniture. There are many things that are easy to change in a home, but the floor plan and room sizes are not. Take measurements of the rooms, and decide ahead of time if it will accommodate your furniture. Everyone has different needs when it comes to the functionality of a home. You want a place that works for you. Love to cook for your friends? Put a spacious dining area or an open concept kitchen at the top of your list. Need room for the kids to play? Look for a place with a comfortable family room that you can grow into.
Choose a home that benefits all aspects of your life – Your home should enhance your lifestyle. Consider what you love to do in your spare time, and see how you can incorporate that into your house hunt. Love taking the dog for adventurous hikes? Why not select a neighbourhood that offers convenient access to green space? Do you enjoy going out for dinner with friends? Living within walking distance to restaurants will be an enjoyable bonus.
When searching for your next home, look past the paint colours and finishes. Think long term, look at the big picture, and choose a home that will bring you enjoyment for years to come.
What other things do you look for when buying a home? Tell us about it on our Facebook, Twitter or Google Plus Page.
Looking for your next Dream Home? We can help! Contact your Local White Rock Realtor, Demitri Zambus via Email or by phone 604-961-1067