You've tossed around the concept and now you've made the decision to move to a small town about 30 minutes away from your current rental home. The small town is the spot of your favorite restaurant and the romantic hiking trail that leads to the top of a breathtaking overlook.
The homes in your 'dream town' are pricey, older, with less interior square footage, and significantly smaller yard space than your current home. Your romantic notions take your imagination soaring to new heights and you can picture the 'perfect' home. In your daydreams. The home has a bright white kitchen with an over-sized marble top island, and an open, spacious floor plan throughout that would be perfect for the gala entertaining that occurs in your dream-like state.
You're jolted awake from your far away fantasy when the Realtor pulls up to the first showing appointment. Upon entry to the home, the hallway leads to a small enclosed parlor with heavy draperies, tucked away behind french doors covered in tapestry on the right and a dimly lit dining room on the left covered in gaudy rose wallpaper. You step into the kitchen and stagger onto the linoleum tile, catch a glimpse of the hideous green appliances, glance up to the popcorn ceiling, and make a quick exit to the bathroom...
Buying real estate is the marriage of:
What I need with what is available within my price range.
Buyers like to dream, and I say dream big but be sure to season the dreams generously with a healthy dose of reality.
A move is always a trade-off.
Perhaps you'll have a smaller kitchen but you can walk to work.
Maybe you won't have the convenience of the park across the street but you're gaining a home with a large yard.
I recommend sitting down and truly thinking through what are the needs and what are the wants.
Do you need to be closer to work, day care, school, a family member?
If so, what proximity is a necessity (within 2 miles, 5 miles, 10 miles)?
Do you need 4 bedrooms or would 3 bedrooms be sufficient with a pullout couch in the family room for guests?
Is a four car garage a 'must have' even though you only have two cars? Would you consider a storage facility for your excess 'stuff' or maybe its time to consider disposing of the VHS collection or the Encyclopedia Britannica volumes? 
Deciding to move can be a fun adventure.
My recommendation is to keep the needs and wants in perspective and keep focused on the ultimate desired outcome.
Start by speaking with a Realtor that can ask you the right questions as you embark upon the journey.
Are you considering a move to the Carlisle, PA area?
Are you thinking of selling your Carlisle, PA area home?
I have lived in Carlisle since 2000. I love this town and would be honored to help you with your specific real estate needs.
Maria Sapio (717) 226-6857 msapio@homesale.com
-Image from Freerangestock.com
