When shopping for a home, one can never be too cautious. For most people, a house is a huge investment, so you want to be sure you're making the best possible choice. While some people believe their gut instinct, others take a more systematic approach. Here are some of the indicators that can tell you've found the right house.
The house draws you inside
A big part of the thrill of looking at homes is that you never know what's behind the carefully manicured curb appeal. Sometimes you're not even sure which one it is in the row. Could it be the one on the right or that cute little one on the left? They all look the same but have small details that set them apart. If it's the house on the right and you like the one on the left better, that can mean something. Still, one thing is certain – the right one will invite you inside the moment you see it.
You can already see your furniture in it
When you walk into the master bedroom and can immediately see your bed against a wall, this might be your house. That living room window overlooking the backyard might be a perfect place to put a Christmas tree, while the driveway and the lean-to look perfect for parking your Toyota. Those neighbors playing with their dog across the street seem like friendly people you would like to know. In many cases, neighbors are more important than furniture arrangement.
You're already defensive about the house
Your buyer's agent might point out several flaws, like outdated kitchen tiles, or a roof that needs urgent repairs. Maybe they're just being realistic, and maybe you've already fallen in love with the house so much that you're already figuring in renovation projects. At the end of the day, it's you who's going to live in that house and not your agent, but you should be realistic and bring up all potential flaws in the negotiations.
It has a great location
If the house in question is in a favorable location, it's a huge perk for you to consider it. While city locations offer restaurants, shopping venues, services, and entertainment venues, in the past few years, suburban homes are in increasing demand, especially in Australia, where new suburbs are sprouting on the fringes of bustling urban hubs. It shouldn't surprise then that great house and land packages in Austral are selling like hotcakes. Located just 42km south-west of the Sydney CBD, Austral has access to superb commercial areas, schools, and multiple transport hubs, and it's expected to grow even more due to the number of planned developments in the area.
There's plenty of space
Landing a home that is too small for your family leaves you constantly trying to find additional space while buying a property too large will amount utility bills and maintenance costs. Consider the size of the home you currently live in and see what are its shortcomings. Do you have enough bedrooms or bathrooms for your family? If you plan on extending your family in the near future, plan for an extra nursery.
You can handle the compromises
At one moment you'll realize that you'll never find a home of your dreams without a few compromises. To make the right choice you need to make a list of absolute priorities, and those you can live without. This way you can focus your search on important amenities. If you don't like landscaping, think twice about buying a property with a stunning lawn. Every property comes with its set of compromises, but when choosing the dream home, they mustn't shadow the good sides.
You plan to go back
If you decided to see the house one more time the moment you got into your car, there's a good chance the home is right for you. In that case, make sure to visit at a different time of day, and bring another pair of eyes. If you can't stop thinking about the house, you should probably start discussing offers, because your hunt is likely over.
Considerations like these will bring you closer to making the right decision. If you instantly recognize the values that are important to you, don't wait for the house to become a part of someone else's dream.
