Selecting the right home is
not an easy decision and often it is complicated by emotional issues. Buyers tend to
"fall in love" with a home, and that is fine as long as the rational reasons for
buying the home support their emotional decision.
Evaluate the Neighborhood
In choosing a neighborhood, take the following into consideration:
- If you have children, you will most likely
want a neighborhood that is family-oriented, so that your children will have other
children around to play with.
- Families will also want to look into the
quality of the local school districts. While all the school districts are good, if your
child has special needs, it is very important to evaluate the schools to determine which
one best fits your requirements.
- If you like sports, you may want a
neighborhood that features jogging paths, parks, tennis courts, etc.
- Determine the proximity to work or school
and decide whether this is an important issue for you. Check out the proximity to shopping
and recreation centers.
- Drive or walk around the neighborhood you
are considering. Notice the condition of the houses in the area. Homes in good condition
indicate a pride in ownership that has a positive impact on property values.
- Visit the neighborhood at different times of
the day and pay attention to the amount of traffic and noise.
- Find out about crimes in the area. The local
police department can provide you with statistics on how many and what types of crimes
have been committed in each area.
- Do you need a location where you can keep
horses or other animals?
- Do you want city or country living?
Evaluate the Home
Decide ahead of time what features you want to have in a home. Some features you will
absolutely need, and others may be an option. Here are some things to think about:
- Do you want a new home or a resale?
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
- What style of home -- Contemporary,
Traditional, Southwest?
- What type of floor plan - Two Story, Ranch,
Tri-level?
- Do you need a basement - finished or
unfinished?
- Do you want a large or small lot?
- Do you want acreage for animals?
- Do you want to live in the city or the
country?
- Do you want views of the peak or front
range?
Make a list of the amenities you would like
to have in your home. Here are a few to think about:
- Eat-in kitchen
- Great room or Family room
- Formal living and dining area
- Master suite with 5 piece bath
- Number of bedrooms on the same level
- Where do you want the laundry room
- Number of fireplaces
- Air conditioning
As you view the different homes, write down
the pros and cons of each one. Evaluate how each one measures up to the criteria you have
established. Your efforts will go a long way toward assuring that the home you buy is the
right choice for you!
