Buying and moving into your dream house is one of the most satisfying things to cross out on your bucket list. However, it is also one of the most consequential financial decisions you will ever make. Before you go house hunting, you should have a solid handle on what you’re looking for.
Extensively, preparing a guide on things to look for can help you find the right property that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Regardless of your desired house type and features, your dream house awaits you! Find your dream property with Real Estate View and browse through the thousands of homes for rent and sale in Australia. But before that, check out these ten factors before buying a house.
1. Price
Of course, start your list by looking for a house that fits within your budget. Set a budget before you begin searching for a property, and make sure to stick to it. Ask about all the costs associated with its final price to make a decision that won’t leave you with little to no funds.
If you are moving to an entirely new area, take a moment to go around the community and review the cost of living. Are the prices of goods and gas the same, lower or higher? Undoubtedly, these factors can impact your budget, so knowing these before picking a property is essential.
2. Location
Choose a property with easy access to your work and other essential establishments as much as possible. If you’re having trouble settling where to live, consider asking yourself if you would prefer to live near or distant from busy streets.
Additionally, if you have children, it would be essential to take a moment to inspect the quality of education at schools in your chosen area. When picking a location for your dream house, it is also essential to evaluate other factors that may influence it.
3. Insurance
The next thing you should consider is the insurance plan for your selected property once you are satisfied with the price and location. No matter how strong and well-kept your home appears, calamities can strike at any time.
Worse, accidents resulting from disasters or theft might be quite expensive for you. Disasters are beyond your control, but you can prevent them from ruining your finances! Before finalizing the sale, inquire about the home insurance policy.
4. Size
It’s normal to want a big or a small house – everyone wants to live a different lifestyle. The property size you’ve chosen is also crucial, as it can affect your daily activities inside the house.
If you want to have several appliances and tools, then every room of the house should be able to accommodate your needs. The correct number of bedrooms for your family, a bigger living room to accommodate guests, or a kitchen with enough space to move while preparing your daily meals freely.
But, of course, you should know that the bigger the lot size, the more expensive it can be.
5. Age
If you are buying a home you plan to live in for your entire life, age makes a difference. Before making an offer, consider the pros and cons of picking between new construction and older residences. It would be best to customize your search depending on the age and property type that you want.
6. Security
Verify whether the area is only accessible to homeowners and whether security guards are on duty around-the-clock. You surely would not want to live in a community that does not guarantee peace of mind.
Regardless if there are patrolling guards every night, placing security devices such as CCTV cameras on your front door would also be essential.
7. Maintenance
Unless you are purchasing a newly-constructed house, quiet house features may need maintenance. It might range from minor repairs to massive replacements; you might need to do a few maintenances before living in your house.
Some repairs might be minor and would get instantly fixed, such as missing locks, while others might take time and money to improve. Write them down and calculate if the maintenance cost is worth it.
8. Future Development
When viewing a property, pay attention to its surroundings. The sight of construction around the neighborhood signifies a developing area. The land owner could develop new amenities or establishments to benefit residents like you. However, it would be best if you also considered the temporary noise of the construction and how it can affect your daily life.
9. Yard Size
The yard size might also be on your checklist if you desire of living in a house with a front or backyard. In case you’re having problems picking, consider whether you would want to avoid the burden of a large lawn or prefer low-maintenance gardening.
If the property you are considering has a yard, it would be best to consider the features you want and see if the size can accommodate your goals.
10. Basement, Attic, and Garage
Check if the basement is remodeled or finished when viewing. Some people prefer a finished basement for an additional room, though a basement can be pricey. If you plan on using the basement, pay attention to its lighting, water damage, and other leaks for inspection. It should also have at least one accessible window or door for emergency exits.
If permitted, it would be best to check the attic to look for signs of leaks and damage to the roof. While you are there, check for animal droppings and other signs of infestation and injuries you should worry about. Take note of the ventilation and be on the lookout for water damage.
Lastly, if you own at least one or more cars, you should go for a house with a garage. Consider the total parking space you need, including the width and length of the driveway.
Find Your Dream House Today!
Indeed, purchasing a house is a dream come true. But buying one is more challenging than choosing the first property that attracts you and moves in instantly. There are a lot of factors to consider to ensure that you live in a house that grants you happiness, comfort, and satisfaction. Start browsing your dream house today!
Caroline is a dedicated writer with a passion for keeping readers informed. Specializing in providing the latest news updates and unbiased reviews, she strives to deliver accurate and insightful content. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, Caroline ensures that her readers are always well-informed. Stay tuned for her latest articles to stay up-to-date on current events and trends.
