The temptation of first-time homeownership is palpable. Your goal may be to accumulate wealth for future generations or develop an investment to sell upon retirement. Whatever your reason for owning a property, there are various steps between your current location and the point where you can relax and enjoy it.
The purchasing process is lengthy and complicated, and it’s easy to feel bewildered. Prioritizing helps you navigate the process without overlooking critical factors for you and your family. Here’s a guide to buying your first home:
House model with real estate agent and customer discussing for contract to buy house, insurance or loan real estate background.
1. House Size
According to MV Realty, before contacting a real estate agent, you should have a general idea of the size of house you wish to purchase. Calculate the required minimum and maximum square footage, as well as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Which property size to acquire is influenced by your requirements and personal preferences. If you have a large family or intend to start one shortly, you’ll certainly need to look at homes with square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
If, on the other hand, your home is exclusively comprised of you or you and a partner, smaller dwellings may make more sense and be more affordable. While one of the critical benefits of a larger house is it gives family members and house guests adequate space, smaller homes are easier and less expensive to furnish, which is beneficial if you’re starting to have a family or a single dweller.
2. Lot Dimensions
Many people are unconcerned about the size of the lot on which their house is constructed. Lot sizes may be relatively equal within a neighborhood. Once you begin attending showings and inspecting the inventory, you’ll quickly find if you favor large or small, corner or inside. While some lots are shaped like pies, others are rectangular or irregular. It may or may not be an issue for you, depending on your desired amount of solitude, the intended usage of the lawn, and the driveway’s length.
If there appears to be a disagreement between the boundaries of two lots, have your realtor verify the lot description and dimensions. Consider your options if you come across a property with two lots. If the second lot is buildable, you have the option of adding another structure or dividing the land, building a second home and selling it separately, or selling the lot as-is.
3. Neighborhood
Bear in mind that your property doesn’t exist alone. It’s a component of a larger community in which you’ll regularly be immersed. Keeping this in mind, you must locate an area that fulfills your criteria before purchasing. Is your ideal retreat the serenity of a secluded wilderness or the excitement of a bustling metropolitan center? Do you want to go to a coffee shop every morning, or would you like to avoid potentially noisy neighbors?
Whatever you desire, don’t be hesitant to perform basic research before initiating your quest. Take a drive and, if possible, stop for a while in the neighborhood. Dine at neighborhood restaurants and relax in a nearby park. Notify your real estate agent once you’ve identified areas that appeal to you. They’ll use this expertise to zero in on just what will put you at ease.
Sold Home For Sale Real Estate Sign and House
4. Age Of House
This factor isn’t relevant if all you care about is new construction. On the other hand, if you’re ready to look at all properties within your price range that fulfill your basic demands, you’re likely to come across residences from diverse decades. While older homes may have an allure, they may also require additional maintenance and updating. Ascertain that you possess the appropriate time, drive, and financial resources to enjoy managing these efforts.
Building codes develop over time, and it’s advantageous to have a basic knowledge of some of the significant differences when assessing homes created under a different set of rules. Your realtor may be familiar with this information or may be able to direct you to a source where you may receive it.
5. Additional Expenses
If you don’t consider the costs, your dream home may wind up being a cause of anxiety rather than comfort. Attempt to stay within your budget’s constraints. Bear in mind that there are additional costs to consider in addition to the monthly mortgage payment. Consider municipal taxes, monthly electricity rates, construction expenses, and association dues when purchasing.
After you’ve made an offer on a property, your agent should communicate with the sellers on your behalf. They can obtain a breakdown of their monthly and annual payments regularly. Bear in mind that these costs will remain relatively constant over time. Allow sufficient wiggle room in your budget to ensure that you stay comfortable in your ideal house for many years to come.
Takeaway
Every person deserves the opportunity to find the home of their dreams. It’s possible with sufficient inquiry. Keep these essential elements in mind as you and your family begin the home-buying process. They’ll help you narrow down the traits that a home must have to be your ideal fit.
