Find a Home

So you've decided to find a home of your own. Before you click on that real estate site or call up a local real estate agent, you'll want to give some consideration to your needs and desires and create a wish list for your new home. Here are a few things to consider as you try to find the best home for you and your family.

Finding a Home in the Right Price and Location 

First of all, how much do you want to spend, and where do you want to live? These questions are intimately connected in your search to find a home. If you determine that you have only a certain amount to spend on a home (and very few of us are unlimited when it comes to purchase price), you likely will also be limited to certain neighborhoods. There's nothing wrong with this, you just need to learn more about any areas you're unfamiliar with. What is the school district like? How old (or new) are the homes in the area? What are the property taxes like in the area? How close is the nearest grocer, drug store, doctor's office, hospital, park, transportation and so on? How far is it from your place of employment?

Another important thing to determine about the area is the general trend in property value. Has it been on a general upward trend? If it's still reasonably priced, and you determine that the property value has been trending upward for several years, a home in that neighborhood might represent a good investment. If property values have been trending downward, you'll want to find out why. Is crime a problem in the neighborhood? Is there a highway nearby? Is there a factory under construction? A coal mine under excavation? All of these things might drive property values down.

Considering Different Types of Homes 

Next, you want to look at the different types of homes available and figure out what suits your needs. Do you want all of your rooms on a single level (sometimes important for seniors). Would you be comfortable living in a condominium, townhouse or mobile home? These options are all generally cheaper than a detached single-family home. What about style? Do you prefer modern-style homes? Newer homes? Or would you rather move into a hundred-year-old Victorian?

Would you consider a fixer-upper? This means a smaller investment up front, but you'll pay out at least some of the difference over the long term on repairs and renovations. If you've got the skills and knowledge to take on this work yourself, you'll save on contractor costs, and that fixer-upper might become a real worthy investment. What about the outside of the house, like the yard, garden or pool? Do you want a big yard with space for a garden and play area for the kids? Would you rather have a smaller yard, and thus less mowing to do? Do you have a pet that needs a fenced-in area? Consider what you need in outdoor living space.

Now think about the inside of the house. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? How many bedrooms and bathrooms would you like to have? This will give you a range to consider, with the smaller number being the minimum acceptable number of bedrooms and bathrooms and the larger number giving you room to grow. How big do you want the house to be? A bigger house will mean more cleaning and upkeep, but it also might come with better storage space for things you don't need cluttering up your living space. What about special features inside the house? Consider things like air conditioning, a dishwasher, carpeting or hardwood floors, a separate dining room and so on.

By creating a list of must-haves as well as a wish list, you'll be sure to find the homes that suit your needs.