20 Questions: Answer These and You’ll Find the Perfect Home for You
Searching for the perfect home isn’t as easy as it might seem. Just when you thought you knew what you wanted and needed in a home, you discover that there’s so much more that meets the eye.
Whether you think you know what you want in a home or have no idea what to look for, asking the following questions will help you find the right property.
1. What’s my budget?
Consider what you can comfortably afford, not the maximum amount of the mortgage you get approved for.
2. What would I consider sufficient square footage?
Not enough space can feel too cramped, but too much space can be harder to upkeep.
3. How much outdoor space would I like?
Start picturing the size of your dream backyard and what you want in it.
4. Where in town do I want to live?
Ask yourself if you want to be in a more central part of town near tons of stores and restaurants, close to work, or somewhere more peaceful and secluded.
5. How many bedrooms do I need?
Bedrooms aren’t just for sleeping. They can also be used as an office, a hobby room, or an extra storage space.
6. Does it have the amenities I want?
Is the home you’re looking at close to desired amenities or located within a community like Velvaere with a wellness center, access to skiing, and hot tubs?
7. Is not having an open floor plan a dealbreaker?
Some people only want a home with an open floor plan, especially since converting to one can be expensive.
8. Will this be my forever home?
If you say yes, then by all means, be as picky as you’d like. But if it’ll be a temporary place for you to reside, it’s okay to go for less.
9. Am I okay with a fixer-upper?
If there’s a certain location you want, or you’re on a tight budget, you may want to look at purchasing a fixer-upper. One catch: you’ll have to put some work into it.
10. What kind of garage space am I looking for?
Many homes don’t have more than one double-wide garage. Some homes don’t even have an attached garage or only have one with a manual door.
11. Stairs or no stairs?
A house with stairs often means more space, but it can also be less accessible.
12. Do I need something low-maintenance?
Larger properties with bigger yards require more maintenance. Are you okay with this trade-off?
13. Is carpet a red flag?
Are you looking for a home without a trace of carpet, carpet only in the bedrooms, or with mostly carpet? Also decide if you’re okay with swapping out floors, if needed.
14. Does a certain floor plan matter?
Layouts go beyond open and closed concept or single and multi-story. Others might include studio, feng shui, shotgun, or center-hall colonial.
15. How safe is the neighborhood?
Safety is critical, but the safer the part of town, the more expensive it may cost to live there.
16. Do I need a lot of closet space?
Make sure your future home has enough closet space, or at the very least, an attic and/or a basement.
17. Am I looking to live in a gated neighborhood?
For extra safety and security, a gated neighborhood can be a good choice.
18. Would I consider living in an HOA community?
HOAs have their perks and drawbacks.
19. Do I gravitate towards a home that’s modern or quaint?
Some people love a modern new-build while others love the charm of an older home.
20. What school(s) will my kid(s) go to?
Consider the fact that certain parts of town may be assigned to different school zones. Keep commute times in mind, too.
Conclusion
It’s not always easy knowing what to look for in a home. During your search, you may find that there is so much more to consider than you might have ever imagined. Answering the above questions, however, can ultimately help you find that right home.
