How to Make Sure You Have Picked the Right Home For You

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Finding the place you will be calling home is a big decision and should not be done half-heartedly. When you buy a house, you make a long-term commitment to that house and everything that comes with owning a home. So how do you know when you have found a place that is commitment worthy? Sometimes as soon as you see it, you know. More likely, you will take some time to find something you like, with the process perhaps becoming more and more frustrating. Fortunately, there are some things you can do and tops to keep in mind to make the process smoother.

Know Your Budget

Have a realistic conversation with your real estate team before you start to view properties. For first time buyers, there can be the temptation to go beyond your budget if you see a property you love, but the stress of being unable to afford future mortgage payments may not be worth it in the long run. Furthermore, not having a clear budget can lead to you missing out on a great property.

Location, Location, Location

When searching for your ideal home, the location will be your most crucial factor as it is integral to your lifestyle.  One of the reasons the place is so vital is that you want your home’s value to grow over time. Even a great home might not be appreciated as well in a less ideal area. For example, what if it is in a less perfect place.

A good location can give you more than just a higher likelihood that the home’s value will increase; it can mean a tolerable commute, an easily accessible downtown area with restaurants and shopping, access to good schools and more. Or it can mean the exact opposite if you’re looking for a home in a more secluded area, far away from the hustle and bustle of town. Finding the right location for your needs will likely make you much happier in the long run.

Make Sure It Ticks Off Essential Boxes

There are a few crucial elements and boxes that you need to confirm before purchasing:

• Make specific vital components such as roof, have been surveyed, you need to check how costly it would be to repair or replace and is it worth it? Make sure the windows open easily and are in good condition. Find out what state the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is in.
• Look behind sinks and toilets for signs of damage or leaks; look for telltale discolouration of ceilings and walls.
• Test everything if you have determined the house is a real contender. For example, flip all the light switches, flush the toilets, turn on the shower, etc.
• Are you going to have to renovate to add value?

Do Some Mental Decorating

When figuring out how to pick the right house, the taste can be a very personal thing – you might not decorate in the same way as the previous tenants. This means you need to look beyond the décor to the space itself – focus on the walls and ceilings, on any bright windows and think about how you’d fit your interior design in with them. So when you find yourself mentally moving your furniture into the room, it’s a good sign.

If you have children, it is worth bringing them into the frame and getting their advice regarding where they will be growing up. Looking for a house is an exciting time, and more seriously, it is an investment, so take your time and have a good think about what you pick.

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