Everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect home. For some, a perfect home means opulence and luxury. For others, quaint and cozy spaces are the goal. Charming curb appeal, a big yard, or proximity to activities and amenities can increase a home’s desirability, too. So, how do you define the perfect home? Before you begin a real estate search, it’s an important question to ponder. Here are some factors to consider:
Type
Do you have your heart set on a single-family home, or does the low-maintenance lifestyle of a condominium appeal to you? Would you be comfortable in a townhome or a duplex? Is having all the rooms on one floor, like a ranch-style, more practical for your lifestyle, or would you prefer multiple stories? Considering different types of homes can expand your options in many areas of the country. Ask yourself if home means a certain type of structure or if you’d be open to a variety of choices.
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Location
The location of your home can significantly contribute to or detract from your quality of life. Give some thought to how much commuting time you are willing to build into each day for traveling to work, school, and activities that you enjoy. In addition to the time involved, commuting can be costly, so consider any related expenses for fuel and transportation. Narrowing down your preferred radius can help focus your home search.
Size
It’s easy to get caught in the mindset of acquiring as much square footage as you can when buying a home. Instead, think about the space you really need and want. How many bedrooms and bathrooms would be suitable for your household? Do you need separate den and dining areas, or would one large living space be preferable? Is a home office a necessity for you? How many square feet do you want to furnish, heat, and cool?
Style
When you picture your dream home, what architectural style comes to mind? While you may not be able to find (or afford) a home exactly the way you picture it, the style you envision can point toward your aesthetic preferences. Do you see a modern, sleek design or a more traditional, classic plan? Are you more comfortable in spacious, light-filled rooms, or do small and snug spaces entice you? Knowing what visually appeals to you can help you sort through the available real estate options and make the right choice.
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Outdoor space
There are many reasons why an ample yard or patio area may be desirable. You may enjoy gardening or entertaining. Perhaps there are children in your household who need a place to play. Or, maybe you just like to have green space between you and your neighbors. On the other hand, outdoor space may not be important at all to you, making a condominium or zero-lot-line dwelling a perfect fit for your circumstances.
Maintenance
When choosing a home, it’s important to think about what level of maintenance you’re willing to tackle. For example, an older home may require more upkeep and care than newer construction. A larger yard will need more time and effort, particularly during the growing season. When you’re considering homes, projecting the amount of maintenance that will be required is an important and practical consideration.
Protecting your home with an HSA home warranty plan can help it feel even more perfect for you. That’s because an HSA home warranty helps safeguard your household budget against the costs of covered repair or replacements to major components of home systems and appliances that fail due to normal wear and tear. This practical protection can provide you peace of mind, enabling you to enjoy your house without the ongoing worries of future covered breakdowns. For more information about the many advantages of HSA coverage, be sure to visit onlinehsa.com today.