Wants vs. Needs When Buying a Home
When looking for a new home, you should start by defining your wants and needs. We all have a dream home in mind, but it’s important to be mindful of the vital things needed to give your family a safe place to grow. From the attic to the basement, every home is different and it can be daunting to make a proper checklist. To ensure you find the perfect home for you, we came up with a few common things people look for when buying a new home.
NEEDS
The Area
The area or neighborhood the home resides in can make a world of difference. Safety is obviously the number one concern, but the area’s shops, community centers, and amenities can also make a significant impact your decision. Before you put down money, make an effort to research the area’s crime rates and local stores. This can be done by web searching crime statistics and looking over online maps.
The Schools
If you have kids or plan on having them, an area’s school district should significantly sway your decision to buy a new home. It’s imperative for kids to have a safe and friendly learning experience with skilled and passionate teachers. Before you buy, thoroughly research the area’s school district and consider scheduling a tour of the school grounds.
The Commute
Let’s face it—a long or short commute can have a major impact on your day-to-day life. Aside from putting your vehicle through unneeded wear and tear, long commutes can be mentally draining and take away precious time from loved ones. However, depending on where your work is located, areas that are closer to inner cities typically have higher crime rates. Try your best to find a happy medium so you can avoid excessive time in the car and not have to worry about the safety of your family.
WANTS
The Floor Plan
Nowadays, everyone wants a spacious and inviting floor plan. Truly, a floor plan can make or break a home. Yet beyond how it feels, you should look for a floor plan that’s a good fit for your family. Try to think of how many bedrooms and bathrooms you would need for your loved ones and guests. This is always a good starting point when looking for a new home.
The Kitchen
It’s understandable why many home buyers rarely settle for anything less than their dream kitchen. It’s the heart of the home and serves as a special place for family and friends to gather, especially during the holidays. Spacious kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances are highly sought after on the market. And for good reason: we all eat every day and spend a great deal of time in this part of the home.
The Lighting
The lighting in your home is not only for functional purposes; it can present your home in a captivating manner—especially when utilized outside. In recent years, outdoor lighting has become a highly sought after feature. To help further define your home and give it some well-deserved attention, consider choosing one with some stage lighting.
The Floors