Written by Cara Fitzgerald | 21 January 2023
Before making an offer on a property, it’s important to consider particular features of it. While finding the perfect house or apartment necessitates thoughtful reflection of your own personal criteria, we’ve put together a list of standard features that should prove pivotal in guiding your decision-making process.
Of course, it’s location, location, location
One of the foremost considerations for home buyers should be proximity to work, school, shops, public transport and bike tracks, for example. Many of us prioritise convenience in our daily lives, so being close to a quality school and things we do regularly significantly influences our decision-making. Also consider the property’s street location – is it on a busy road or tucked away, is there a bus stop out the front or a train track running behind?
Size and layout
Pay particular attention to the size and layout of the property to ensure it meets your needs. Does the home have a balance of space and functionality? Does it offer a versatile layout that accommodates your lifestyle preferences, from a home office to entertainment areas? Does the block size and shape meet your needs in terms of parking your box trailer or camper trailer? The importance of flexible spaces will be a key factor in satisfying your evolving and longer-term needs as your life circumstances change.
House age and maintenance needs
The age of a house and its maintenance requirements are critical considerations to be made. Typically, there is a correlation between newer houses and reduced maintenance, which may prompt you to balance the charm of older homes with the practicality of less upkeep. An older home may need sooner repairs and maintenance than your finance allows. Similarly, the age and quality of the home appliances should be examined. Ovens, dishwashers, air conditioners and hot water systems are expensive to replace, so may be a key factor in your decision.
Kitchen layout
Whether you’re a foodie, home chef or not, the configuration of the kitchen contributes to its functionality. If you frequently gather in the kitchen, an open layout might be appealing, but if cooking is not a regular activity, a smaller or enclosed kitchen might be enough to meet your needs. Reflect on the significance of the kitchen space for both you and your family, allowing these considerations to serve as valuable guidance in your decision-making process.
Bedrooms
The ideal number of bedrooms varies based on your individual needs, but ensure you’re not short-sighted in your thinking. If you have plans for future family expansion, be that children or elderly parents, contemplating a home with more bedrooms than is currently required is advisable. Extra bedrooms also offer versatility, serving as a place for guests to stay the night or a home office space. It’s essential to evaluate your intended use of space to ensure a well-informed purchase that aligns with both short-term and long-term needs.
Bathrooms
The number of bathrooms should hold significant weight for you as a home buyer. Think about your needs in terms of family members and potential guests. Your preference regarding the inclusion of a bathtub versus only showers, the size of each bathroom, or the possibility of adding an extra bathroom in the future should all factor into your judgement when on the verge of purchasing a new home.
As an aspiring home owner, we can often find ourselves at a crossroads, weighing up numerous factors in deciding which house or apartment is the right one to make an offer on. The 6 important features discussed here provide a roadmap for navigating this exciting but complex journey to property ownership. Using these as your guide, when you are looking to buy, it is essential to pinpoint the things most important to you.
Need some help house hunting? Contact us! Rated the number 1 agency in the suburb 9 years in a row, our team at @ap-realty can help you unlock the door to either your dream home or next investment property.
