Choosing the right property is important both to live in and for investment purposes. Situated at the right location with access to facilities and roads, a great view, a logical floor plan and the right position to the sun, a house will be very comfortable for its dwellers as well as having a high re-sell value.
The following is what home buyers should look for when buying a house.
Choose a Property in a Good Location
It’s certainly a wise move to buy a property in a high capital growth area as the value of properties there will appreciate in time. The problem is that houses in such areas are often quite costly and beyond the reach of the average first time home buyer. An alternative is to buy a house located one or two suburbs away from the preferred suburb. Very often, new suburbs with capital growth potential will become hot property markets a few years down the road. Be sure to look for an area near schools, shopping malls, playgrounds and other recreational centers.
Access to Roads and Public Transport
When buying a house, another important consideration is easy access to big roads, highways to the city and reliable public transport. Good public transport is especially important for big families with only one family car. Without bus, train or tram services, it will be extremely difficult for everyone in the family to travel to work, school and shops. Home buyers planning to buy in a new housing estate should check that there are plans to build roads and set up public transport in the near future.
Find a House With a View if Possible
A house with a nice view – the sea, a lake, mountains, a forest or city lights at night – is often a good buy. In fact, a good view is an asset that will help maintain or even increase the house value. However, it’s important to check that no future developments can take place to block the view. Otherwise, the home owner may find himself looking at a 10-story apartment block instead of a nice city view!
Get a Property With a Logical Floor Plan
A property with a logical floor plan is one where space flows smoothly from one area of the house to another. There are no abrupt dead ends and people walking around in the house often feel a sense of harmony – the rooms, doors, windows and stairs all seem to be at the right places. Some examples of a house with a logical floor plan are the laundry area with a door leading to the hanging area in the backyard and a living room that opens out to an outdoor entertainment garden.
Position of the House to the Sun is Important
The way sunlight flows into the rooms is another consideration when buying a house. In Australia, home designers often recommend houses with north-facing living areas as these will be filled with warm sunlight in winter months. If possible, avoid buying a property with main rooms facing the west as these are directly exposed to the hot sun in summer. East-facing homes are great for home owners who favor morning sunlight.
Choosing the right residential property is crucial for the comfort of home owner as well as to maintain its value over time. When buying a house, look for one in a good location with easy access to roads and public transport. Try to find a house with a view, a logical floor plan and with the right position to the sun as well.
Found this article useful? Read also Costs of Buying a House, Buying a House as an Investment and Buying a House with No Deposit.
References:
Derkley, Karin. Buying & Selling Your Home for Dummies. Queensland: Wiley Publishing Australia, 2006.
Thomson, Jimmy. The Ultimate Guide to Buying & Renting Houses & Apartments. New South Wales: Fairfax Books, 2008.
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