As much as we love our homes, there may come a time when we start to outgrow them. Signs of this can be subtle at first, such as feeling cramped or noticing that storage space is becoming scarce. You may find yourself yearning for additional bedrooms or a larger yard to accommodate your growing family or changing lifestyle. Perhaps you're feeling the need for a home office or a dedicated space for hobbies. Whatever the reason, it's important to recognize when your current home is no longer meeting your needs.
Shopping for a new home is an exhilarating experience filled with hope, anticipation, and endless possibilities. There's nothing quite like walking through the front door of a prospective home and imagining all the memories you could create within its walls. Each home is unique, with its own sense of character, charm, and potential. The thrill of discovering your dream home is unmatched, and the journey to finding it can be just as thrilling. But before you get wrapped up in the excitement and begin your new home search, being an informed shopper is a good idea. Read on to find out what to look for in a new home when you’ve outgrown your current one.
What to keep in mind when house hunting
Work with a trustworthy and experienced real estate agent
The first step in your new home search should be to team up with an expert real estate agent. An experienced agent will take the time to understand your needs and priorities, provide valuable insights about the local market, and help you navigate the complex home-buying process. They can also offer valuable advice and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the best possible deal.
Establish a realistic budget and stick to it
It's important to determine how much you can comfortably afford, taking into account essential factors like your income, debt, and monthly expenses. Once you have a budget in mind, it's important to stick to it to avoid overextending yourself financially. Since you are upgrading to a home with more space, it is likely to command a higher price tag than your current property. Getting pre-approved is crucial in focusing your home search on properties that fit your financial constraints.
Consider the location
Location-related factors, like school districts, commute times, and access to amenities, can all significantly affect your quality of life. Make sure to research the area thoroughly and think about how the community will enhance your daily routine. Consider amenities, such as local restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment options, to ensure that your new home fits well with your lifestyle and interests.
Pay attention to the home's condition
Paying close attention to a home's condition, layout, and potential for future renovations is a crucial step in your new home search. Take a thorough tour of the property and look for any signs of wear and tear or necessary repairs. Consider the layout and whether it fits your lifestyle and needs. The property may be more spacious than your current one, but does it have enough room for your family to grow over the years? Think about potential renovations that may be necessary down the line and whether they fit within your budget.
Determine your “must-have” features
When searching for your dream home, it's crucial to determine your “must-have” features and prioritize them. Which areas in your current home seem too small? Where do you want to see an improvement? Think about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, as well as any specific styles or features you're looking for. Consider what's most important to you and your family, whether it's a large backyard or an open-concept kitchen.
Keep an open mind
It's important to keep an open mind and be willing to compromise on less important features. While having a list of “must-haves” is helpful, remaining flexible and open to different possibilities is also essential. Be willing to consider homes that may not check every box on your list but still have the potential to be a great fit.
Ask questions about the home's history
Be sure to ask about past renovations and repairs, as well as any potential issues that may arise in the future. Knowing about the home's history can help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises down the line. Be sure to have the home inspected by a professional to uncover any hidden issues.
Visit the home multiple times
Visiting a home multiple times and in different weather conditions is a great way to get a complete picture of what it's like to live there. While a home may look great on a sunny day, it's important to see it in the rain, snow, or wind to get a sense of any potential issues. Visiting the home at different times of the day can also give you a better idea of the traffic patterns in the area.
Take your time, and don't rush into a decision
Finding the right home can take time and patience, and it's essential not to settle for a home that doesn't meet your needs. After all, you want to find a home that has plenty of extra space and many of the features you’re looking for. Take the time to explore different neighborhoods, tour other homes, and consider all your options. Remember, a home is a major financial commitment, so making a well-informed decision that will bring you long-term satisfaction is crucial.
How do you know if a house is “the one?”
You’re looking for an emotional connection. This could be something as simple as a feeling of comfort or a sense of excitement when you imagine living there. If you can envision yourself making lasting memories in the home with your growing family, that's a good sign.
Trust your gut and follow your heart
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell in the Brookline, MA, real estate market, expert agent Scarlett Tamburro is your go-to. She has extensive experience in the Greater Boston real estate market and the expertise to find you the perfect new home. Reach out today!
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
