What To Look For In A First Home
The search for your first home is an exciting and important milestone. But choosing the right house can also seem daunting – it’s one of the biggest commitments you’ll make and there are lots of aspects to consider, especially in the current uncertain economic climate.
If you’re unsure where to begin, take a look at this tick-list to help you find the perfect first home.
Location
This is perhaps the most important element to consider. Think about where you work and the commuting time, where your friends and family are located and how easy it is to connect to other towns and cities. Research local transport options and find out the nearest train stations and bus stops.
New homes are often built with these factors in mind and there are many new build home developments across the UK that provide great options for your first home.
Neighbourhood
You should also investigate what the immediate neighbourhood is like including facilities such as shops, bars, restaurants and medical centres.
If you have children you might also want to check out the nearby nurseries and schools as well as their Ofsted ratings and reports.
The size of the property
The living space and number of bedrooms are determining factors in whether a home is right for you. If you have children or are planning on extending your family, you’ll need to look for a house with enough room for you to grow into.
On the other hand, if you choose a home that’s too large for your needs, you could end up paying for space you don’t need, as well as having to fork out for higher energy bills.
Quality
The condition of the home is important. Unless you’re happy to take on a project and don’t mind buying a home that needs some TLC, make sure to watch out for the basics. These include:
- Checking that there are no signs of damp or cracks in the walls
- Making sure there are no loose roof tiles
- Ensuring taps are working
- Checking the condition of doors, windows and locks
Remember, you can always pay for a survey that will highlight any issues with the structure of the property and potential repairs that might be needed.
Natural light
It’s wise to consider the amount of light a property lets in, particularly if it’s overlooked by other homes. If you’re buying a house with a garden, find out which direction it faces – south-facing gardens benefit from maximum sunlight during the day while north-facing spaces are likely to be darker, especially during winter months.
There are also a variety of other factors that you might want to consider, depending on your needs. These could include parking, a garage, storage space, the number of steps and neighbouring properties.
Whatever type of property you’re looking for, it’s vital that you don’t rush your decision and take the time to think about the aspects that are non-negotiable when it comes to your home.
This is a collaborative post.
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