Home Buyers Guide

Step 1: Where Do You Want to Live?

Before you can begin to do anything, you need to carefully consider where you would like to live.

Think about the following topics. Your feelings about each will impact the decision you make about where you want to live. Keep in mind, these are factors that cannot be changed once you purchase a home. So think about them now, before you start looking.

Employment: How far are you willing to commute to work daily? Does your employment hinge upon your location? Must you live near to other employment opportunities? How do these answers limit the locations where you can look for a home?

Schools: Is the school district a factor in your purchase? If so, you may want to find out what you can about districts' ratings, budget, recreation programs, and facilities like computer labs. If you have a child with special educational needs, consider what districts have programs that will meet those needs. Do you require transportation to school? Where are the schools located, and is the distance to school a factor in your decision? How do these answers limit the locations where you can look for a home?

Access: Do you commute by car, bus, train, plane or some other mode of transportation? What roadways must you have access to? What is the distance to major thoroughfares? How do these answers impact on your location possibilities?

Areas of interest: For some homebuyers, areas of interest are simply a nice complement to the location finally chosen. However, for others, these elements may play a crucial role in pre-selecting potential neighborhoods. Consider the proximity and accessibility to beaches, shopping, recreational facilities, historical sites, and parks. For some, being close to these places may be highly desirable, even a necessity. For others, closeness to these kinds of areas may be looked upon as a detriment. You may be surprised at your own feelings. How do these answers limit the locations where you can look for a home?

Now you're ready… Once you've listed a range of towns, or areas, that will meet most of your needs you're ready to begin. Keep in mind things can change. You may, after investigating an area decide you want something else. Certainly, how much home you can afford and the kinds of houses available for your money will have a definite effect on where you decide to purchase. So, don't place too much emphasis on an absolute location, just try to have a range of areas to start with.