Buying a new home is a major investment, which is why you have to invest a great deal of time during the search. It is a financial responsibility that requires a lot of commitment and patience. Everyone has a priority when it comes to buying a new home. Some are apparent, and some are personal preferences. Having a checklist of your priorities can make things easier when searching for the ideal home. Differentiating what features are a ‘must-have’ and ‘nice to have’ helps you eliminate the list of houses that don’t meet your expectations. Below is a list of priorities you should have in mind when checking out new homes for sale in Northwest Arkansas.
The Size of the Land the Property Sits On
Many people do not give much thought to the size of the land the house sits on when checking out a new home. Note that houses within the same neighborhood may vary in terms of lot sizes. You may prefer a large, small, or corner lot, depending on how you would like to use the lawn and driveway. This also determines the level of privacy you get to enjoy within the neighborhood. Ensure you get the correct measurements from your realtor so you know where the lot starts and ends.
The Number of Bedrooms
Many people choose houses depending on the number of bedrooms they need or prefer. Many homebuyers already have in mind the number of bedrooms they would want in a home before searching. A guest bedroom is not a must-have, but it is beneficial if you often have visitors. If you have kids, decide if you would like them to share bedrooms or not before you begin your search. Note that an extra bedroom can double as a kids’ playroom, storeroom, or guest room.
The Kitchen Layout
The kitchen layout matters a lot when it comes to buying a new home. Remember that this is the heart of the family, where every member and visitor feels free to enter. Again, many activities revolve around the kitchen, especially when there are guests and during home entertainment events. Some people are vegetarians and need to prepare different fresh vegetables daily, while others are quick cooks who microwave everything. Whatever style of cooking your family prefers, ensure the kitchen suits it. Consider the number of cooks the kitchen can accommodate at once, depending on your preference.
The Condition of the Appliances
Appliances do not come cheap, and they are expensive to repair or replace. When checking out a new home, consider the style and condition of the appliances. If there are no appliances, check if the house has enough room to add them later. You can make an educated guess on the age of the appliances, or the home inspector can give you a detailed report. Check the property list to see what appliances are part of the sale, and see if the property price is fair.
Age of the House
Building codes are constantly changing, so it’s essential to consider the age of the house. If you are looking for a specific house style or a vintage home, you might already be aware of the time such houses were built. Keep in mind that older homes may have a certain unique appeal, but may require many renovations and upgrades.
The Key Takeaway
Before you even check a house, consider its purchase price and what you can comfortably afford.
