Starting a home search can feel a little like wandering into a forest: There are so many places to wander and so much possibility waiting. Therefore, knowing what to look for when buying a house is very necessary.
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What to Look for When Buying a House
And while we all like to dream and wonder, getting serious about finding a home to buy will eventually require a series of choices based on what’s possible and practical.
Most buyers start to narrow their search by price so they’re looking only for homes they can afford. As they start to tour online or in person, they develop a sense of the market, what’s available and what’s appealing to them.
If you’re looking to buy a home, there are some general rules that can help you find a home that works for you now and in the future.
Today, buyers are juggling different priorities when it comes to buying a home
Home features Buyers Want
When it comes to home features, the following were very important to a majority of buyers:
Within initial budget: 82% of buyers cite budget as very or extremely important
- Air conditioning: 79%
- Preferred number of bedrooms: 77%
- Preferred number of bathrooms: 72%
- Private outdoor space: 72%
- Floor plan/layout that fits preferences: 72%
- Preferred size/square footage: 69%
The following are what to look for when buying a home.
Search for the Right Price
Price will dictate what you can buy. While looking at homes above your price range can be fun and provide you with a sense of the market, it can also set you up for disappointment if you fall for a home outside your price range.
Prioritize the Location
Location is one of the most important things to consider when buying a home, but 23% of buyers report finding it extremely difficult to find a home in their desired location.
If you can’t find or afford a home in your ideal neighborhood, work with your agent to determine what is most important to you so you can find a location that best suits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Think Long Term
Zillow’s research shows that the typical homeowner stays in their home for 14 years before selling. When shopping for a forever home, think beyond your immediate needs. Make sure the home meets your long-term goals and plans. Like community attributes, school district quality, and flood zone status.
Assess Property Condition
Television makes home renovations look easy, but in reality, they can be anything. If you’re a first-time buyer who has never undertaken a home project, you may want to steer clear of a home in serious disrepair. The costs can add up quickly, and if the home needs structural work, it could delay your move-in, causing unnecessary stress.
Don’t Focus on Minor Cosmetic Details
No house is perfect, so try not to get hung up on little imperfections. For example, don’t delete a home from your list just because you don’t like the interior paint color. Cosmetic changes are fairly easy and relatively affordable to make. Cosmetic repairs generally include: Paint, Hardware, Furnishings, and scaping
Stick with Your Must-Have
There’s a big difference between wants and needs when shopping for a home, so it might be helpful to create a list for each. For instance, a shorter commute may be a must-have, but smart home features are a nice-to-have.
Needs
- Shorter commute,
- A specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Designated parking
Nice-to-have
- Updated kitchen
- Upstairs washer and dryer
- Smart home features
You may be that lucky buyer who finds a house that checks all the boxes, but chances are you’ll have to make some compromises. If you do, make sure you’ve got your needs covered. you can get more information at Google.
