Features to look for when buying a house

Not sure what to consider when buying a new home? the listing price isn’t the only thing that matters. Here are some home features that are important to most homebuyers.

1. Location, location, location there’s a reason most real estate is all about location; you can change paint color, add a pool, or update old flooring. You can’t move your house. Make sure you know where you want your home to be before starting your search. Do you want to be in a specific school district? Near parks or nightlife? Do you prefer a rural setting or a more urban one?

Work with your real estate agent to choose a few different neighborhoods before starting your search.

2. Square footage

How big do you want your home to be? It can be tempting to think bigger is always better, but higher square footage also comes with higher heating, cooling, and maintenance costs.

3. Yard and outdoor features

How big of a yard do you want? Do you prefer privacy, or would you rather have a low-maintenance lawn? Do you want a huge garden or need space for a large dog?

Now is also the time to think about outdoor features, like a pool or a fence. Keep in mind that outdoor living spaces like a patio, gazebo, or kitchen can increase a home’s cost. If price is also important, consider whether adding these features later is more economical.

4. Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

While outdoor features can be added easily, increasing the number of bedrooms or bathrooms can be cost-prohibitive, so look for a home that already meets your needs.

If you have kids, you’re likely looking for a bedroom for each child, but consider future needs as well. Will you need space for guests, an office, or a parent down the road?

You’ll also want to pay attention to how the bedrooms are laid out. If you have small children, you may wish to have the bedrooms close together. A home with a first-floor bedroom may be vital if you plan to age in place or care for an older family member.

For bathrooms, consider the number of bathrooms, their size, and their location. two bathrooms might be enough for a smaller family, while larger families may prefer three or more. Make sure the home fits your needs if you want a tub versus a shower (or visa-versa!)

5. Flex space

Flex space is becoming increasingly popular in homes, especially since the Pandemic has kept so many of us closer to home.

Does the home you’re considering have space that could have multiple uses? For example, a finished basement that could serve as a teen study space, a guest room, or an in-law suite later?

While flex space might not be necessary for all homebuyers, it can significantly affect your long-term comfort and resale value.

6. Kitchen layout and features Kitchens sell houses. the proper kitchen with updated features can help sellers overlook other less-desirable features in a home. Consider how often you cook, the amount of kitchen storage you need, and whether the home has the features you need.

For example, an avid baker might want double ovens, or you might prefer an open-concept kitchen so you can cook while entertaining guests.

other kitchen features to consider include: ●Dishwasher

●Garbage disposal

●Amount of storage

●Pantry

●type of cabinets

●Is●and

If you plan to live with others, consider how the space will work with multiple people. For example, can you wash dishes while someone else is cooking?

—flyhomes.com