Saturday, October 13, 2007

The Key to Home Buying Satisfaction May Have Less to Do With the Property Than You Think

Three bedrooms versus five, one bathroom versus two - will these things TRULY make you happy when you buy a new home? Not as much as choosing a home to suit your lifestyle will. This article rings to light one of the less discussed, but most important factors in finding the right home for you and your family.

People make their real estate buying decisions based on dozens of factors, and a lot of them are fairly straightforward qualities about the property that help narrow down the choices.

For one buyer, three bedrooms may be enough, four is fine, but five rules a house out. For another, the amount of land determines the acceptable area to enjoy and the desired distance from neighboring houses. For still others, the tax rate in one city or town versus another can hold some serious sway on the final purchase.

But what about a desired lifestyle? Some people consider things that factor into lifestyle – urban vs. suburban vs. rural, for example – but don't consciously consider lifestyle as a deciding factor for selecting a home. And these people might be more satisfied with their home buying decision if they did.

Selecting real estate to fit a lifestyle is a good option, because it'll help you fit in the community, and ensure you feel at home once you get moved in.

It's about finding a community that meets your needs. Of course, there are plenty of different lifestyles, and plenty of communities to suit those lifestyles. So, what's the simplest advice?

Look for a community that you feel comfortable in. It could be one where the neighbors are similar to you and have similar habits and a similar lifestyle. Or if you value diversity within your environment, you'll find comfort in variety.

You can tell a lot about a community just by driving through it. Check out the local shops and stores to give you an idea of the atmosphere. Check out local parks and drive through different neighborhoods. Then get out of the car and start walking around and talking to people. You're bound to meet friendly, open folks who can tell you what it's like to live in the community.

By selecting real estate to fit your lifestyle, you help increase the chances you'll like the home you move into. You'll find it easier to make friends and fit in. You'll have more things to do that you enjoy, the right mix of necessities at hand and room to retreat to.

The truth is, selecting real estate to fit a lifestyle isn't anything new. It may be something you're already doing without even thinking about it. Considering what a huge and life-influencing decision the home-buying process isHealth Fitness Articles, it's worth it to put some outright conscious effort into lifestyle considerations. It may make the difference between simple satisfaction and unfortunate toleration.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Alpine Lakes Real Estate has been building long-term relationships in the White Mountains region for more than 20 years. Their extensive real estate expertise is enhanced by their vast knowledge of the entire building process. With offices in Lincoln and Campton, NH, they also offer assistance with IRS 1031 "like-kind" exchanges, and the Design-Build services of their in-house architect. For more information, go to http://www.AlpineLakes.com.