Deciding What You Want in a New Home
In 2020, approximately 29.8 million people decided to move, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. If you’re planning to become part of those moving statistics, prioritizing what you want in your new home helps with the search. Consider these factors to develop your ideal home profile, presented below by http://www.rehava.com
Renting vs. Buying
Deciding whether to rent or buy depends largely on your financial situation and
preferences. Buying requires more money up front for the down payment and closing costs. You’re also responsible for repairs, regular maintenance, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and possibly HOA fees.
When you rent, you pay one amount each month to cover everything except
utilities. However, buying a home is an investment, and you could build a lot of equity. You also have complete control over what you do to the house when you buy. Once you’ve decided, you can research rental or home prices in your target area.
Location
When doing research into the local housing market, it’s important to identify target
neighborhoods to limit your search based on your preferred location. Consider the
proximity to work as well as other places you go often, such as your doctor’s office, favorite grocery store, restaurants, gym, parks, lakes, and bike trails. If you have kids or plan to have kids, research the local schools to find an ideal area.
Home Size
Typical purchases are for homes that are 1,900 square feet with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, according to the National Association of REALTORS. Decide how much space, including the ideal number of bedrooms and bathrooms, you need to live comfortably.
Accessibility
Accessible design is important if you have a family member with a disability or who’s older. Choosing a home with accessible features also helps you prepare for the possibility of those situations. Some accessible design features include 36-inch-wide doors, lever door handles, and 42-inch-wide hallways, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
Available Outdoor Space
Another appealing feature is outdoor space. Decide if you want a yard and how large you want it to be, and factor in the upkeep that comes with a lawn. If you’re considering an apartment or condo, you might look for a balcony or shared green space on the property.
Parking
Decide what parking options you want in your new home, which might include a driveway, carport, or garage. If you entertain frequently, consider how much street parking is available. When public transportation is your primary way of getting around, decide how close to the Denver rail stations or bus stops you want to be.
Condition of the Home
If you’re buying, decide how much work you’re willing to do. Fixer-uppers take time and money to get into the condition you want, but you can often get a deal on the sale price. For homes that need some work, consider which areas need to be renovated. Kitchens and bathrooms are often pricey to remodel. A major mid-range kitchen remodel averages $75,571 and a mid-range bathroom remodel averages $24,424, according to Remodeling Magazine. If you don’t want the mess of renovations, then a move-in-ready or new- construction home is an easier option.
Prioritize Home Features
Knowing what’s important in your next home helps you narrow your search. If you’re
ready to start, visit the home search option at http://www.rehava.com
Article written by: Charlotte Meier – information@homesafetyhub.org
I am an active Realtor specializing in the Douglas County /El Paso County areas. I have experience listing and selling residential properties throughout Douglas County including: Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch, Franktown, Sedalia, and Larkspur. I am currently expanding my business to; Black Forest, Monument, Colorado Springs, Peyton, Falcon, Woodland Park, Divide and Cripple Creek.
