Both seasoned homeowners and first-time buyers know making the decision to purchase a new home is not one that is taken lightly. There are so many things to consider, from choosing a home with growth potential to finding a community to support a family's interests and lifestyle.
While the decisions may seem endless, don't be discouraged. Develop a strategic approach to buying a home with our definitive guide to selecting a home and property that will suit a growing family's needs. Use this guide, along with advice from a trusted real estate professional in your area, to get started on the path to home ownership.
Look For Neighborhoods With Growth Potential:
Choosing the right location is one of the most grappled with decisions when it comes to buying a home. While some home-buyers aspire to "keep up with the Joneses," purchasing a home in the "trendy" neighborhood of the moment, savvy home-buyers know the best bargains can be found in "up-and-coming" locales.
Skip the higher property values and congestion and search for a home in an unincorporated area with growth potential. This might require driving a few extra blocks for that morning Starbucks coffee, but this will easily be overlooked once the community grows (and your home value with it).
Unfinished Basements Are Your Friend:
Sure, most home-buyers cringe when they enter the sometimes scary, always dark and lonely, unfinished basement. But the savvy home-buyer knows unfinished basements are their friend.
A basic renovation can take the space from ghastly to awesome. Unfinished basements provide a number of options for growing families and are a great way to add bathrooms, bedrooms and common areas for kids and teens.
Choose A Home With Income Potential:
While the average buyer is interested in a single-family home, don't discount homes with basement apartments or mother-in-law suites. These types of home configurations can lead to significant income potential and can help to offset the cost of a monthly mortgage payment.
Income potential doesn't just include garage apartments and mother-in-law suites; it encompasses open space as well. Build a duplex or a guesthouse on extra land for a significant return on investment. Or, take advantage of special land grants to grow crops or house bees on unused acreage.
Think Long-Term When Choosing Schools:
When choosing schools, think macro not micro. Remember to evaluate school districts at all levels: elementary, middle and high schools. Don't choose a community based on the elementary school, if the middle and high schools are not as impressive.
A young child might be an elementary school student upon purchasing the home, but will matriculate through the school district during the course of a 30-year mortgage. Be sure to select a home in a community with a school district that can support youngsters at every level.
For more information about finding a home for a growing family, contact a real estate agent in your area.
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