Did you know that the average person moves houses 11.7 times in their lifetime? That’s a lot of boxes to pack (and unpack). So, it’s no wonder that finding the perfect home can be tough. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Here are 10 factors you may not have considered while house-hunting:
1. Natural Light
One factor to consider is natural light. This is especially important if you work from home or spend a lot of time indoors. Make sure the home you’re considering has plenty of windows and gets good natural light. It can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.
2. Commute
If you have a long commute, you’ll want to take that into consideration when house-hunting. You’ll want to find a home that is close to your work or has good public transportation options. Otherwise, you could be spending a lot of time commuting and not enough time enjoying your new home.
3. Heating and Cooling
Heating and cooling is another important factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure the home you buy has a good heating and cooling system. This is especially important if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. Especially during the summer or winter months, you’ll want to make sure your home is comfortable.
4. Neighborhood
Don’t forget to consider the neighborhood when house-hunting. You’ll want to make sure you feel safe in the neighborhood and that it’s close to amenities like schools, shopping, and restaurants.
5. Storage Space
Another factor that is often overlooked is storage space. When you’re looking at homes, pay attention to how much storage space is available. This includes closets, cabinets, and even attics or basements. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough space to store your belongings.
6. Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees
If the home you’re considering is part of a homeowners association, be sure to check the HOA fees. These fees can add up, so you’ll want to make sure they’re affordable.
7. Maintenance and Repairs
Don’t forget to factor in maintenance and repairs when house-hunting. You’ll want to make sure you can afford to keep up with the maintenance and repairs on the home you buy. For example, an older home may require more repairs than a newer one.
8. Warranties and Insurance
Warranties and insurance are another important factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure the home you buy has a good warranty and that you have adequate insurance coverage.
9. Resale Value
If you plan on selling the home in the future, you’ll want to make sure it has good resale value. Be sure to check with a real estate agent to get an estimate of the home’s resale value.
10. Your Budget
Finally, one of the most important factors to consider is your budget. You’ll want to make sure you can afford the monthly mortgage payment as well as other expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
Keep these ten factors in mind while house-hunting and you’ll be sure to find the perfect home for you and your family.