The search can begin in your present home. We’ve developed some questions to encourage your thinking and help you identify your needs and preferences. Once you’ve clarified what you like in your present community, you will have a better idea of what you want to find in your new home. Plus, you will be able to express your preferences clearly to your real estate agent.
Keep this old wisdom in mind as you go house hunting: “The best time to think about selling your home is when you’re buying it.” In other words, what appeals to you as a buyer today also may appeal to buyers tomorrow. A careful house hunter will benefit years from now when it’s time to sell to an equally value-conscious buyer. Build your buyer savvy by viewing real estate websites, reading newspaper ads, home publications and design magazines, watching real estate television shows and visiting open houses.
- Would you characterize your location preference as a city, the suburbs, semi-rural or rural? Is the population density low, medium or high? Is the population decreasing, holding steady or increasing?
- What natural features are the most significant? Woods? Hills? Flat land? Rivers? Ocean shore? Lakes? Streams and ponds?
- How do you commute to work? Do you walk? Drive? Carpool? Taxi? Bus? Train? How far must you travel and how long does it take in the morning and evening? Do you use available public transportation for local trips or to visit close-by communities? Can someone reach your home by public transportation?
- Where do you do your shopping? Central commercial districts? Shopping malls? Community shops or home delivery? Imagine a list of typical stops in one week. How many miles and how much time would it require to visit the entire list? Do you want greater convenience?
- What does the area offer for recreation and entertainment? Music? Movies and live performances? Sports arenas? Museums? Nightlife? What types of indoor and outdoor sports facilities are available? Are there public parks, country clubs, athletic clubs and civic associations?
Check out these resources for more tips on finding the right location for your new home:
Driving the Neighborhood
Picking Your Neighborhood
Got questions about buying a home? Contact me today at si**@******gh.com or call or text (703) 966 1075.
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