Home buying is difficult whether you know the area or not. If you're leaving a location you're used to, it can be overwhelming to decide on a new place to live. There are some questions you can ask to determine your priorities and whether a new location is a good fit. Here are some to begin with:
How's the Weather?
For many, the weather has a huge impact on quality of life. Whether your choice is based on personal preference or physical comfort, it's a good idea to take the local climate into consideration when thinking about a new place to live. Check out weather reports from local news outlets and research historical data like average rain, snowfall and temperatures throughout the year. This knowledge will help you decide how comfortable you'll be in a new location.
What's the Cost of Living?
Don't stop thinking about your budget after you make your home purchase. The property itself is just the beginning of a new financial life. Knowing the cost of living in a new area will help you determine whether it's affordable to live there long-term. Research local property taxes, mortgage rates and nearby rent prices. Other factors like groceries, entertainment, utilities, gas and transportation costs will also affect your ongoing budget.
What's Infrastructure Like?
While it covers a wide variety of features, the infrastructure of a new area is important to become familiar with before you choose to live there. Infrastructure includes things like public transportation, city planning, schools, hospitals and other emergency services. To find out more about transportation, consult bus or train route maps and schedules. Find out how close your new home will be to healthcare services, basic amenities and other key features like major highways or busy streets. All of these details combine to create a living experience, and the more you know, the clearer your deciison will be.
About the Author
Richard Powers
Born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, Richard has been a successful Real Estate Agent, specializing in the Greater Lynn area for 28 years. He was awarded the prestigious Centurion Award for 19 years in honor of his outstanding number of listings and sales and was the recipient of numerous Diamond Awards for exceptional sales and service.
In his spare time, Rich enjoys golfing, hiking with his dogs and practicing Karate, in which he holds a second-degree black belt. He also enjoys volunteering for various animal rescue groups with his wife of 33 years and is especially dedicated to supporting Faithful Companions, a local non-profit group that helps families in need receive life saving veterinary treatment for their cherished pets.
The next time you need an experienced Real Estate Agent, be sure to give Rich a call. His professionalism and knowledge of the Real Estate Industry are unrivaled.
