Should I Rent or Buy?

Is it time to take the plunge into the home buyers’ world?

If the idea of purchasing your first home or just buying the next home is on your mind, I have some thoughts to add to the collection you’ve already been making in your own mind.  Sometimes moving seems like an exciting experience and other times just a nuisance.  The act of actual moving is totally irrelevant, though when it comes to actually achieving movers happiness.

In order to gauge the level of success you’ve achieved from a move some factors must be taken into account.  The first that I’ve noticed when trying to understand this is whether or not I find myself smiling on the way home or annoyed, dreading another night there.  Where we lay our head at night is a big part of happiness.  Finding a place that draws us to it is a key to achieving the level of happiness that we’ve dreamed about for probably all our lives.  I know I have an ideal mind set and when heading home over the years, different houses and apartments that I’ve lived in have conjured up thoughts of peace as well as dread.

This is why I have a suggestion if you are moving into a new area.  Do you know the neighborhood?  Do you know the neighbors?  Do you feel comfortable with your morning and evening commute?

If any of these make you a bit hesitant, please do some research before buying and dedicating yourself to an area.  Maybe now is the time to rent a home to take a year and investigate the location a bit.  This may give greater insight into the desired location you want to buy.  Maybe something just isn’t right.  If so, the lease will end and you can pick up the iMac and the six iPads and just move the family.

When it finally feels right, it’ll feel right and then you know without a doubt that you’re ready to lay down roots in the area.  If now is the time to test out new areas, check out the guide below and the listings that just may help you on your search for happiness.

The term "garden-style" condo usually refers to a condominium residence in a building that has less than three stories. Most garden-style condos have balconies or patios for each residence. Many garden-style condos have a main entrance that opens to a common-area hallway. Additional common areas include the green space and "gardens" surrounding the structures. If you're interested in garden-style condos you'll have a lot of options in Northern Virginia.

From the suburban feel of Kingstowne to the central location of Bolling Brook from the vintage charm of Belle View to the chic feel of Carlyle Square, are just some of the many Northern Virginia condominium communities we feature.

See all Real estate in city of Annandale.